A perforated eardrum is a hole or tear that has developed in the eardrum.
What causes a perforation?
- A middle ear infection – The build-up of infected fluid or mucous in the middle ear causes more pressure against your eardrum and occasionally causes the ear drum to perforate. The infected mucous or discharge then seeps from the middle ear into your ear canal.
- Trauma - direct or indirect cotton bud use, or a blow to the head
- Pressure – changes in pressure, such as when flying or scuba diving
- Very loud noises, such as an explosion
What will a perforation feel like?
- Pain or discomfort
- Discharge
- Reduced hearing
- Repeat infections
- Tinnitus
How is a perforation treated?
- Usually no treatment is required and a perforation will heal within 6 to 8 weeks
- If there is an infection, topical antibiotic treatment will be required. A perforation will not heal until the infection is clear.
- If the perforation does not heal, a referral can be sent to Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) to assess the perforation and discuss available options, such as an operation to repair the perforation.
Looking after your perforation
- Keep your ear dry when swimming, washing your hair or showering by using cotton wool smeared in Vaseline in the entrance of your ear canal to create a waterproof seal. This is particularly important with a perforation to minimise the risk of infection in the middle ear.
- Avoid using cotton buds or other items, such as hair grips, to clean your ears.
When should I seek advice?
If you have any problems or concerns such as your ear becoming painful or you experience any discharge from your ear, contact:
Ear Care and Audiology Service on 01709 423207 or 01709 423145.
You can contact our service Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm (excluding Bank Holidays)
Outside of these hours or alternatively please contact your GP surgery or NHS 111.