Ear Drum Perforations
Ruptured Eardrum Treatment in Fullerton, CA
A perforated eardrum, also known as a ruptured eardrum or a tympanic membrane perforation, is a hole or tear in the tissue between your ear canal and ear drum. This tissue, called the tympanic membrane, is incredibly thin and delicate, and when pierced it can cause a wide range of symptoms from moderate discomfort to hearing loss.
The highly trained ENT specialists at Greater Orange County Ear, Nose, Throat, Head & Neck Surgery have extensive experience diagnosing and treating perforated eardrums. Call (714) 447-4100 to request an appointment at our ENT office in Fullerton, CA.
Causes of a Ruptured Eardrum
Typically, a perforated ear drum is the result of an injury, infection, or chronic disorder of the ear. Most often you will see perforated eardrums caused by:
- An object pushed too far into the ear canal
- A head trauma such as a skull fracture
- Striking the ear directly
- Loud sounds or blasts
- An infection of the middle ear
- Barotrauma (severe air pressure that is typically exerted during air travel)
Symptoms of a Ruptured Eardrum
Signs and symptoms of an ear drum perforation include:
- Significant ear pain
- Ringing or buzzing in your ear
- Vertigo (may also cause nausea)
- Temporary hearing loss
- Drainage from the ear in the form of blood, pus, or a clear and watery fluid