Perforated eardrum
| Perforated eardrum | ||
 | ||
|---|---|---|
| ICD-10 | H72 | |
| ICD-9 | 384.2 | |
| DiseasesDB | 13473 | |
| eMedicine | ent/206 | |
| MeSH | C09.218.903 | |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Rupture or perforation (hole) of the eardrum can occur in infection, trauma (e.g. by trying to clean the ear with sharp instruments), explosion or loud noise. Flying with a severe cold can also cause perforation due to changes in air pressure and blocked eustachian tubes resulting from the cold. This is especially true on landing.[2]
Perforation of the eardrum leads to conductive hearing loss.
The perforation may heal in a few weeks, or up to a few months.[3] Some perforations require intervention - this may use a paper patch to promote healing (simple procedure in the office of an ear, nose and throat specialist), or surgery (tympanoplasty).[4][5]
Hearing is usually recovered fully, but chronic infection over a long period may lead to permanent hearing loss.
Diagnosis
Physical Examination
Ear Nose and Throat
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References
External links
- Template:MerckHome
- PERFORATIONS AND HEARING LOSS - Ear Surgery Information Center
- Ruptured eardrum - MayoClinic.com
- Perforated Eardrum - InteliHealth
- Should a Person With an Ear Infection, Sinusitis or a Cold Fly in an Airplane?- Purple Medical Blog
- Perforated Eardrum article on NHS Direct