Perforation of the Tympanic Membrane: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
A perforation of the tympanic membrane—commonly known as a ruptured eardrum—refers to a hole or tear in the thin tissue that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. This delicate structure plays a crucial role in hearing, and when damaged, it can lead to hearing loss, infections, and discomfort.
At ENT Clinic of Excellence, the best ENT clinic in Dubai, we specialize in diagnosing and treating all types of eardrum perforations using advanced techniques and customized care.
🔍 Types of Tympanic Membrane Perforations
Depending on the cause and location, eardrum perforations can vary:
- Central Perforation – Located in the middle of the eardrum; common in infections.
- Marginal Perforation – Extends to the edges of the eardrum; often linked to chronic ear infections.
- Subtotal or Total Perforation – Affects most or all of the eardrum, often with significant hearing loss.
- Traumatic Perforation – Caused by direct trauma, explosions, or accidents.
🤒 Common Causes of Eardrum Perforation
At our ENT clinic in Dubai, we often see perforations caused by:
- 💉 Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) – Long-standing ear infections can weaken and rupture the eardrum.
- 📢 Trauma or Injury – Sudden pressure changes, slaps to the ear, or using sharp objects like cotton swabs.
- 🧬 Foreign Objects – Inserting items into the ear can easily tear the eardrum.
- 🌊 Barotrauma – From flying, diving, or altitude shifts without pressure equalization.
- 🔥 Acoustic Trauma – Sudden loud noises or blasts, common in industrial settings or concerts.
- 📝 Surgical Aftereffects – Procedures like myringotomy or grommet (tube) insertion may leave a temporary perforation.
⚠️ Symptoms of Eardrum Perforation
If you experience any of these symptoms, visit an ear specialist in Dubai promptly:
- 🎧 Hearing loss – Often temporary and varies with the size of the tear.
- 💧 Ear discharge – Clear, pus-like, or foul-smelling, especially if infected.
- 🔔 Tinnitus – Buzzing or ringing in the ear.
- 📆 Frequent ear infections – Pain, swelling, or discharge that comes and goes.
- ⚡ Ear pain – Especially after trauma or a sudden noise.
🩺 How We Diagnose a Ruptured Eardrum
At ENT Clinic of Excellence, we use advanced diagnostic tools to accurately evaluate your condition:
- ✅ Otoscopy – Direct visualization of the perforation.
- ✅ Audiometry – Hearing tests to assess conductive hearing loss.
- ✅ Tympanometry – Measures eardrum flexibility and middle ear pressure.
- ✅ CT Scan – If middle ear or mastoid involvement is suspected.
💉 Treatment Options: From Simple Care to Surgery
1. ✅ Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment
Many small perforations heal on their own! Management includes:
- 🚫 Keep the ear dry – Avoid swimming or water entry.
- 💊 Antibiotic ear drops – If there’s active infection.
- 🔐 Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal.
- ⏳ Monitor healing – Most small perforations heal within a few weeks.
2. 🏥 Surgical Treatment (When Needed)
For large, chronic, or non-healing perforations, our ENT consultant in Dubai may recommend:
- Myringoplasty – Grafting to close small perforations.
- Tympanoplasty – Rebuilding the eardrum and possibly the middle ear bones.
- Ossiculoplasty – Repair of damaged ossicles (ear bones) for hearing restoration.
🏆 Why Choose ENT Clinic of Excellence?
- ✨ Expert ENT Consultant in Dubai – Years of experience treating adult and pediatric ear conditions.
- 🛠️ Modern Equipment – Precise diagnosis and minimally invasive treatments.
- 🧑⚕️ Patient-Focused Care – We explain your condition clearly and guide you through every step of recovery.
Whether you need ear infection treatment in Dubai, hearing tests, or surgical repair—we’re here to help.
📅 Book Your ENT Consultation Today!
Don’t ignore hearing loss or persistent ear infections. Get evaluated by the top ENT doctor in Dubai and start your recovery today.
📍 Visit us: Dubai Healthcare City – Building 64, Block A, 2nd Floor, Suite 2004
📞 Call us: 050 248 0249
🌐 Book online: entclinic.ae