Perforation of the Tympanic Membrane: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

What is a Perforation of the Tympanic Membrane?

A perforation of the tympanic membrane (eardrum) refers to a hole or tear in the eardrum that can occur due to infections, trauma, or pressure changes. This condition may lead to hearing loss, ear infections, and discomfort. There are different types of perforations, including:

• Central perforation – Located in the middle of the eardrum, sparing the edges.
• Marginal perforation – Extends to the eardrum’s outer edges, often linked to chronic infections.
• Subtotal or total perforation – A large opening affecting most or all of the eardrum.
• Traumatic perforation – Caused by injuries, explosions, or direct trauma.

Causes of Tympanic Membrane Perforation

• 💉 Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) – Persistent infections weaken the eardrum, causing perforation.
• 📢 Trauma – Sudden pressure changes, ear cleaning injuries, or exposure to loud sounds can cause damage.
• 📝 Post-Surgical Causes – Perforation can occur after procedures like myringotomy or tube insertion.
• 🧬 Foreign Objects – Using cotton swabs, sharp objects, or inserting items into the ear can result in injury.
• 🌊 Barotrauma – Sudden pressure changes from diving, flying, or explosions.
• 🔥 Acoustic Trauma – Exposure to loud blasts or high-intensity sounds.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

• 🎧 Hearing Loss – Conductive hearing loss due to sound wave disruption.
• 💧 Ear Discharge – Clear, pus-like, or foul-smelling fluid if infected.
• 🎧 Tinnitus – Ringing or buzzing sounds in the ear.
• 📅 Recurrent Ear Infections – Frequent episodes of pain and discharge.
• ⚡ Ear Pain or Discomfort – Especially if caused by trauma or infection.

Diagnosis & Examination

At ENT Clinic of Excellence, the best ENT clinic in Dubai, our consultant uses advanced techniques for accurate diagnosis:
✅ Otoscopy – Direct examination of the eardrum.
✅ Audiometry – Hearing tests to assess the severity of hearing loss.
✅ Tympanometry – A test to check eardrum movement.
✅ CT Scan – In severe cases, to assess middle ear damage.

Treatment Options

1. Conservative Treatment (🚫 Surgery Not Always Needed!)

• Keep the ear dry – Avoid water entering the ear.
• Use prescribed antibiotic ear drops for infections.
• Avoid inserting foreign objects.
• Allow small perforations to heal naturally if there’s no infection.

2. Surgical Treatment (For Large or Non-Healing Perforations)

• Myringoplasty – Repairing small perforations using a graft.
• Tympanoplasty – Surgical reconstruction of the eardrum and middle ear.
• Ossiculoplasty – If the middle ear bones are affected, reconstruction may be needed.

Why Choose ENT Clinic of Excellence?

✨ Experienced ENT Consultant – Providing expert care for all ear conditions.
✨ Advanced Treatment Options – From non-surgical to minimally invasive procedures.
✨ Patient-Centered Approach – Tailored treatment plans for every individual.

Book Your Consultation Today!

Don’t ignore ear infections or hearing loss! If you’re experiencing symptoms of tympanic membrane perforation, visit the best ENT clinic in Dubai for expert care.

📞 Call us at 0502480249
📅 Book an appointment online: entclinic.ae

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