Causes and risk factors
Injury is the main cause of perforated eardrum. Any trauma like skull fracture, any direct blow or fall on ear, injury to the ear canal due poking of sharp pointing objects lead to tear or a hole in the eardrum. Infection or inflammation of the middle ear (otitis media) or diseases of the Eustachian tube also contribute to the causation. Loud sounds or sudden explosions can also lead to injury or tear to the ear drum. Changes in pressure in the ear and the external environment like at high altitudes or in scuba diving can also lead to rupture eardrum.
Clinical presentation
Ruptured ear drum can present with complaints of pain in the affected ear. The pain may radiate to the head or jaw bone. The pain is pricking or throbbing in nature, severe type of pain is felt. Thick pus like discharges is seen. The individual hears a continuous ringing or buzzing sound in the ear(Tinnitus). The patient faces difficulty in hearing. Vertigo is another accompanying symptom. Other associated complaints are nausea and vomiting.
Investigations
Diagnosis is done on the basis of the symptoms narrated and the ear examination
The auditory tests which are carried out the turning fork test and audiometery. Routine blood test and Cultures of discharges for causative organism can be done. If required an X-ray of the mastoid is advised.
Treatment
The ruptured eardrum over a period of time heals on its own. In cases if infection persists medications can be prescribed, Antibiotics are given. If the tear or hole does not heal on its own, certain surgical producers need to be done. Either an eardrum patch is used or tympanoplasty is done. Myringoplasty can also be done.
Other modes of treatment:
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating the middle ear infection. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
