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Normal |
Abnormal |
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- A membrane called the tympanic membrane (the eardrum) covers the middle ear. This drum is the first portal through which sounds are transmitted to the listener and perceived by the brain. It works because sounds vibrate the eardrum. A perforation (a hole) in the eardrum short circuits hearing by failing to pass the vibration on.
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- Sudden loss of hearing in the affected ear
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- Otitis Media (caused by an infection in the middle ear pushing pus through the ear drum)
- Trauma -- injury such as with Q-tip
- Barotrauma -- injury caused by pressure, as in underwater diving or air plane travel
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- Perforated eardrums usually will re-grow on their own, but any infection must be treated.
- Evaluation by Ear, Nose & Throat Specialist to drain pus if needed, and consider surgical treatment if needed.
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- To prevent damage to the ear during airplane travel, frequent swallowing (not chewing) is helpful. Decongestants such as pseudoephedrine also help.
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