The eardrum, also known as the tympanic membrane, is a thin, delicate membrane that separates the outer and middle ear. A perforation in the eardrum can occur due to various reasons such as infection, trauma, exposure to loud noises, and changes in air pressure. It can cause pain, hearing loss, and discharge from the ear. In this article, we will discuss what a perforated eardrum looks like in detail.
Causes of perforated eardrum
A perforated eardrum can be caused by several factors. Some of the most common causes include:
- Infection
- Exposure to loud noises
- Trauma to the ear
- Changes in air pressure
- Insertion of objects into the ear
- Earwax buildup
Symptoms of perforated eardrum
The symptoms of perforated eardrum can vary from mild to severe depending on the size and severity of the perforation. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Pain in the ear
- Hearing loss
- Discharge from the ear
- Ringing in the ear
- Dizziness
Visual appearance of perforated eardrum
A perforated eardrum can be identified and diagnosed by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor. It can also be visualized by an otoscope. Here are some of the visual appearances of a perforated eardrum:
Size and location
The size and location of the perforation can vary. It can be a small pinhole or a large tear. Perforations can be located anywhere on the tympanic membrane such as the center, the edge, or the upper part of the eardrum.
Shape
The shape of the perforation can also vary. It can be circular, oval, or irregular in shape. The shape can give an indication of the cause of the perforation. For example, a circular perforation is usually caused by changes in air pressure, while an irregular perforation can be caused by trauma or infection.
Color
The color of the perforated eardrum can also give an indication of the cause. A yellow or white color can indicate infection, while a red or pink color can indicate trauma or changes in air pressure.
Treatment of perforated eardrum
The treatment options for a perforated eardrum depend on the severity and cause of the perforation. Some of the treatment options include:
- Observation and monitoring
- Antibiotics to treat infection
- Pain medication to manage pain
- Surgery to repair the eardrum
Prevention of perforated eardrum
Prevention is the best approach to avoid a perforated eardrum. Here are some prevention tips:
- Avoid exposure to loud noises
- Wear earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments
- Avoid inserting objects into the ear
- Keep your ears clean and dry
Conclusion
A perforated eardrum can be caused by various reasons and can produce a range of symptoms. It can be diagnosed and visualized by an ENT doctor and otoscope. Treatment options depend on the severity and cause of the perforation. Prevention is the best approach to avoid a perforated eardrum.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to perforated eardrum:
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What causes a perforated eardrum?
A perforated eardrum can be caused by infection, exposure to loud noises, trauma to the ear, changes in air pressure, insertion of objects into the ear, and earwax buildup.
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What are the symptoms of perforated eardrum?
The symptoms of perforated eardrum include pain in the ear, hearing loss, discharge from the ear, ringing in the ear, and dizziness.
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How is a perforated eardrum diagnosed?
A perforated eardrum can be diagnosed by an ENT doctor or otoscope.
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What is the treatment for a perforated eardrum?
Treatment options include observation, antibiotics to treat infection, pain medication, and surgery to repair the eardrum.
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How can I prevent a perforated eardrum?
Avoid exposure to loud noises, wear earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments, avoid inserting objects into the ear, and keep your ears clean and dry.
References
- Mayo Clinic. (2021). Perforated eardrum. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/perforated-eardrum/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353665
- American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. (n.d.). Ear infection and hearing loss. ENT Health. https://www.enthealth.org/conditions/ear-infection-and-hearing-loss/
- Medical News Today. (2019). Everything you need to know about perforated eardrum. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/189299