User:Mr. Ibrahem/Perforated eardrum

Perforated eardrum, also known as perforated tympanic membrane, is a hole in the eardrum. Symptoms may include hearing loss, ear pain, discharge from the ear, or ringing in the ear. Vertigo may occur, but is typically brief, unless there is an associated inner ear injury. Complications may include long-term hearing loss, cholesteatoma, and mastoiditis.

Causes may include a middle ear infection, trauma such as being hit in the ear or ear clearing, a loud noise, or change in pressure, such as seen with scuba diving. Diagnosis can be confirmed by looking in the ear with an otoscope. Hearing testing may also be done.

Often a perforations will heal on its own; with recommendations including keeping the ear dry until then. If an underlying infection is present, this may be treated with antibiotics. If the hole is large or does not resolve after two month surgery may be an option.

Perforated eardrums occur relatively frequently. They most commonly occurs in younger people. Males are more commonly affected than females. Treatment for a perforated eardrum date back to at least the 1640s when plugs were placed in the ears.