What to drip when the eardrum is perforated. The use of ear drops for perforation of the eardrum
Perforation ( gap) eardrum is a pathological condition in which a hole or rupture of the membrane is formed due to inflammatory diseases or injuries.
The eardrum is a thin small membrane located on the border between the outer and middle part ear.
The eardrum performs the following functions:
- protective– prevents the penetration of foreign particles and microorganisms;
- auditory– is directly involved in the transmission of sound vibrations.
Anatomy of the middle ear
The ear consists of three main parts:
- outer ear;
- middle ear;
- inner ear.
Outer ear
The outer ear includes:- Auricle;
- external auditory canal.
It consists of elastic cartilage, on which there are characteristic formations in the form of various ridges and protrusions, called tragus and antitragus. This part of the outer ear locates sound sources and picks up sounds that subsequently enter the external auditory canal.
External auditory canal
There are two sections in the external auditory canal:
- external ( membranous-cartilaginous);
- internal ( bone).
When the ear perceives a sound wave, it passes through the ear canal and presses on the eardrum, as a result of which it begins to vibrate. The vibration of the eardrum causes the three auditory ossicles to move ( hammer, anvil, stirrup), which are connected to each other. The action of these seeds amplifies the sound wave twenty times.
Normally, the eardrum is pearly gray in color with a slight sheen. It has oval shape (in children it is round). On average, its diameter is ten millimeters. The thickness of the eardrum is one tenth of a millimeter.
The eardrum consists of the following layers:
- outdoor– consisting of the epidermis;
- average ( fibrous) , in which fibrous fibers are located;
- internal– the mucous membrane that lines the entire tympanic cavity.
The eardrum has two parts:
- stretched part;
- loose part.
The stretched part is tense. It is embedded in the tympanic ring with a fibrocartilaginous layer. It consists of all of the above layers.
Untensioned part
Attached to the notch of the squama of the temporal bone. This part is relaxed and lacks a fibrous layer.
The middle ear begins behind the eardrum.
Middle ear
It is a cavity filled with air. The middle ear communicates with the nasopharynx via the Eustachian ( auditory) pipe, which regulates internal and external pressure on the eardrum. As a result, the pressure in the middle ear is the same as in the outer ear.The middle ear includes:
- tympanic cavity;
- auditory ossicles;
- antrum;
- mastoid appendages of the temporal bone;
- auditory tube
The space that is located in the thickness of the base of the pyramid of the temporal bone.
There are six walls in the tympanic cavity:
- external ( membranous) , inner surface which is the eardrum;
- internal ( labyrinthine) , which is also outer wall inner ear;
- top ( tire) , which borders the auditory tube in front and the antrum in the back ( mastoid cavity);
- lower ( jugular) , under which the bulb lies jugular vein;
- front ( sleepy) , separating the tympanic cavity from the internal carotid artery;
- rear ( mastoid) , which borders the mastoid processes of the temporal bone.
There are three sections in the tympanic cavity:
- lower;
- average;
- top ( attic).
| Auditory ossicles | Description | Dimensions |
| Hammer | It has the shape of a bent mace. There are three parts:
| The length is eight and a half - nine millimeters. |
| Anvil | It has a body and two legs. On the body of the incus there is a recess for the head of the malleus. The shorter leg of the incus is attached to the posterior wall of the eardrum by a ligament. The long leg is connected to the stirrup through the lenticular process of the incus. | The length is six and a half millimeters. |
| Stirrup | The following parts are distinguished:
| The height is three and a half millimeters. |
Inner ear
Externally, the shape of the inner ear resembles a snail shell. Inside it is a complex system of bone canals and pipes, which is filled with a special liquid - cerebrospinal fluid. This is where sound waves are converted into nerve impulses.Vibrations in the middle ear ossicles are transmitted to the fluid in the middle ear. It passes through the cochlear labyrinth and stimulates thousands of tiny receptors that send relevant information to the brain.
Also in the inner ear there are special organs responsible for regulating coordination - the so-called vestibular apparatus.
Causes of damage to the eardrum
Exist following reasons which can damage the eardrum:
- acute otitis media;
- chronic purulent otitis media;
- aerootitis;
- direct damage;
- noise trauma;
- acoustic trauma;
- fracture of the base of the skull.
| Causes | Development mechanism | Description and symptoms |
| Acute otitis media | This disease occurs as a result of infection entering the tympanic cavity. The typical development of acute otitis media occurs after a cold, as a result of which a person's immunity decreases. Due to lack immune defense in the nasal cavity the number of pathogenic microorganisms increases, which leads to a rapidly developing inflammatory process. Due to inflammation in the middle ear, pus accumulates and pressure increases. All this leads to softening, thinning and perforation of the eardrum. Most often, infection enters the middle ear through the auditory tube ( tubogenic way). Also pathogenic microorganisms can enter the tympanic cavity with blood flow ( hematogenously) due to various infectious diseases (e.g. typhus, tuberculosis, scarlet fever). In most cases, acute otitis media can be caused by pathogenic microorganisms such as:
| Inflammation of the middle ear. In its normal course, this disease has three periods. The first period is accompanied by the following symptoms:
The second period is characterized by perforation of the eardrum and prolonged suppuration from the ear ( about five to six weeks). In the second period, the patient’s primary symptoms change dramatically:
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| Chronic suppurative otitis media | Most often it occurs as a result of untreated acute otitis media. There are two forms of chronic suppurative otitis media:
In this form, the inflammatory process involves the auditory tube, as well as the mucous membrane lining the tympanic cavity and the eardrum. Due to inflammation of the auditory tube, its function is disrupted, which leads to frequent infection of the mucous layer and permanent perforation of the eardrum, usually in its middle or lower section. Epitympanitis | Characterized by persistent perforation of the eardrum. The following symptoms usually occur with mesotympanitis:
Epitympanitis is accompanied by the following symptoms:
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| Aerootite | Typically, this phenomenon occurs in people while flying on an airplane, usually at the time of takeoff or landing. In this case, a sharp difference appears between the pressure in the tympanic cavity and the pressure in the external environment. A concomitant factor in the occurrence of aerootitis is poor patency of the auditory tube. Impaired patency of the auditory tube and a sharp drop in pressure leads to various pathological changes in the eardrum ( retraction, hyperemia, hemorrhage, rupture). | Pathological changes in the middle ear up to perforation of the eardrum as a result sharp drop atmospheric pressure. The following symptoms of aerootitis exist:
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| Mechanical damage | Often occur when cleaning the ears with various objects ( for example, using a hairpin, match). In this case, the rupture of the eardrum occurs due to the accidental pushing of a foreign object inside. Another reason for a ruptured eardrum is an inept attempt to remove a foreign body from the ear. | A ruptured eardrum is usually accompanied by pain and bloody discharge from the ear. |
| Acoustic trauma | Occurs due to sudden loud noise (for example, an explosion), at which atmospheric air pressure increases sharply. Strong condensation of air can cause perforation of the eardrum. | The effect of high sound pressure on the hearing organs. Accompanied by the following symptoms:
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| Fracture of the base of the skull | It occurs, for example, when falling from a height or after a strong blow to the head, after which the fracture line can pass through the tympanic ring. | Usually, with this pathology, the patient’s condition is severe or extremely serious. Possible bleeding and leakage of cerebrospinal fluid ( cerebrospinal fluid) from a ruptured eardrum. |
Symptoms of eardrum damage
Damage to the eardrum due to injury is usually accompanied by severe, sharp pain, which subsides after some time. After the pain subsides, the victim experiences the following symptoms:
- noise in ears;
- feeling of discomfort of ear congestion;
- bloody discharge from the external auditory canal;
- decreased hearing acuity.
In the event that a rupture of the eardrum occurs as a result of an inflammatory process, purulent mucous discharge from the external auditory canal and fever will also be added to the symptoms.
| Symptoms | Mechanism of occurrence and manifestation |
| Pain | In acute otitis media, pain occurs at the beginning of the disease due to the developing inflammatory process, and after the eardrum is perforated, it subsides sharply. In the event that a rupture of the eardrum occurs due to injury, then the appearance of sharp acute pain will be characteristic. |
| Purulent mucous discharge | As a rule, this symptom indicates an inflammatory disease, as a result of which the eardrum has perforated. |
| Serous-bloody discharge | Usually indicate a mechanical injury, as a result of which the eardrum has ruptured. |
| Hearing loss | Occurs due to the accumulation of a large amount of fluid in the tympanic cavity due to the resulting inflammatory process in the middle ear ( for example, with otitis media). |
| Noise in ears | May occur as if caused by injury ( for example, after an explosion) and due to an inflammatory disease ( for example, in acute otitis media). Manifests itself in the form of ringing, whistling, buzzing, roaring or hissing. |
| Dizziness | Occurs when the vestibular system is damaged due to a head injury or inflammation of the inner ear. It manifests itself as a feeling of disruption of the body’s orientation in space. |
| Nausea | Occurs when there is damage to the vestibular or hearing aid. The cause may be acute otitis media, acoustic trauma to the ear, or head trauma. It manifests itself as a painful sensation in the throat area. This condition usually provokes vomiting. |
| Increased body temperature | This symptom indicates an existing acute inflammatory process in the ear ( otitis media). As a rule, it is accompanied by weakness, general malaise, and chills. Typically, with acute otitis media, body temperature rises to 39 °C. |
Diagnosis of eardrum perforation
History taking
An examination by an ENT doctor begins with a conversation, during which the doctor collects an anamnesis. Anamnesis is a collection of information about the patient that the doctor obtains by interviewing the latter.Highlight the following types anamnesis:
- passport details, where the doctor finds out from the patient his last name, first name and patronymic, as well as the availability of an insurance policy;
- medical history, in which the doctor is interested in the date of onset of the disease, the development of symptoms, as well as the results of studies, if any;
- anamnesis of life when the doctor asks about previous illnesses, and also inquires about the patient’s living conditions and the presence of bad habits;
- family history, where the doctor finds out whether the patient’s relatives have diseases that can be inherited;
- allergy history, in which the doctor asks whether the patient has allergic reactions to any allergens, for example, food products, medicines, plants.
After collecting an anamnesis, the doctor begins an external examination and palpation of the ear.
External examination and palpation
Before conducting an external examination, the patient is seated in such a way that his legs are located outward from the instrument table, while the doctor’s legs should be between the patient and the table. Then a light source in the form of a table lamp is installed. The lamp should be located to the right of the patient and at a distance of ten to fifteen centimeters from the auricle. After installing the light source, the ENT doctor turns the patient’s head to the side and begins an external examination of the ear. The healthy organ is always examined first.Typically, an external examination of the ear is performed in combination with a palpation examination, during which the consistency, volume, and soreness of the tissues are determined in places of pathological changes.
The physician should perform palpation with clean and warm hands, using the utmost care. It is prohibited to intentionally cause severe pain to a patient, even for diagnostic purposes.
Carrying out an external examination and palpation of the ear allows you to:
- assess the condition of the skin of the auricle;
- identify deformation of the auricle;
- identify the presence of scars behind the ear area;
- assess the condition of the mastoid process;
- detect swelling and hyperemia in the mastoid area;
- detect ear discharge of various types;
- identify violations of facial muscles when damaged facial nerve;
- determine the increase in nearby lymph nodes;
- discover postoperative scars;
- determine the condition of the entrance to the external auditory canal.
The following indicators are normally determined:
- the skin of the auricle is pale pink;
- the relief of the auricle is pronounced;
- there are no scars behind the ear area;
- upon palpation, the tragus and mastoid process are painless;
- free and wide ear canal.
Otoscopy
Otoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that examines the external auditory canal and eardrum. With extensive perforation of the eardrum, otoscopy can also be performed in the tympanic cavity. As a rule, the study is carried out using an ear specula and a frontal reflector.| Instruments for otoscopy | Description | Photo |
| Ear funnel | A cone-shaped device that is used to examine the deep part of the external auditory canal and the eardrum. Exist:
|  |
| Forehead reflector | A special ENT instrument in the form of a rigid hoop and a round mirror with a hole for the eye. Before examining the ENT organs, the doctor puts this device on his head and lowers the mirror so that he can observe what is happening through the hole. The frontal reflector reflects the illumination of the lamp and directs the light into the cavity of the organ being examined. |  |
| Otoscope | An endoscopic device that is used in modern medicine. Designed for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the external auditory canal and eardrum. Consists of the following parts:
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Before inserting the ear specula, the ENT doctor pulls the patient auricle upward and backward to straighten the ear canal. For small children, the ear is pulled downwards.
Before performing an otoscopy, the ENT doctor lowers the frontal reflector, pulls the patient’s auricle with his left hand, and right hand carefully inserts the ear funnel into the ear.
Carrying out an examination, the ENT doctor, first of all, pays attention to the presence of identifying points of the eardrum.
The following identification points of the eardrum exist:
- hammer handle;
- short process of the malleus in the form of a yellowish-white protrusion the size of a pinhead;
- light reflex, which occurs when light rays incident from a reflector are reflected;
- anterior and posterior malleus folds in the form of stripes of grayish-white color.
There are two types of eardrum perforations:
- rim, in which tissue preservation in the area of the tympanic ring is observed;
- regional, in which all the tissues of the eardrum are affected down to the bone.
- size of the damaged area;
- perforation shape;
- the nature of the edges;
- localization by squares.
With minor damage to the eardrum, minor pathological changes in the ear. This may be a lesion of the vessels in the area of the handle of the malleus, accompanied by painful sensations, bruising and minor bleeding from the ear. With extensive trauma, damage to nearby parts of the ear can be diagnosed ( for example, auditory ossicles, articular surfaces, internal muscles of the tympanic cavity).
Also, perforation of the eardrum is usually accompanied by discharge from the ear. The appearance of exudation indicates an existing inflammatory process in the ear, as a result of which the eardrum may have ruptured. When pus is discharged from the ear, exudate is collected ( using a special loop) for subsequent bacteriological examination. Bloody discharge from the ear usually indicates that the eardrum has perforated due to injury.
Laboratory diagnostics
If the eardrum is perforated, the following laboratory tests may be prescribed:- bacteriological examination of exudate.
- increase in leukocytes ( leukocytosis);
- accelerated ESR ( erythrocyte sedimentation rate) .
CT scan
Also, if the eardrum is perforated, the ENT doctor may recommend a computed tomography scan. temporal bones for detailed visualization of the middle and inner ear.Computed tomography is the modern and most informative method diagnostics, which involves layer-by-layer X-ray scanning of any part of the human body. This is a quick and painless procedure during which the patient must lie on a special moving couch and relax. During the examination, the couch with the patient passes through the opening of a rotating ring, which scans the damaged part. After this, the computer processes the received information and displays its results on the monitor screen. Next, the radiologist selects the necessary images and uses printing to reproduce them in the form of x-rays.
The duration of the procedure is on average ten minutes.
Indications for computed tomography are:
- pain in the middle ear;
- discharge from the ears;
- decreased or loss of hearing;
- traumatic lesions temporal part of the head.
You can also make the usual X-ray examination, however, with the help this method diagnostics reveal only bone changes in the mastoid process or destruction of the walls of the tympanic cavity.
Treatment for damage to the eardrum
First aid
If the eardrum is damaged, there is a high probability of infection entering the affected ear. In this case, the patient must exercise maximum caution. It is contraindicated to wash the ear, independently remove existing blood clots from its cavity, as well as dry it or apply cold to it. First aid is limited to introducing a dry sterile turunda or a cotton ball into the external auditory canal, bandaging the ear and transporting the victim to the nearest medical institution. For severe pain, you can offer the patient one tablet of diclofenac ( 0.05 g) or paracetamol ( 0.5 g).During transportation of the patient, it is necessary to ensure that he does not shake on the road. Also, the victim should not tilt or throw back his head.
If a foreign body gets into the ear, the patient should not try to remove it. In this way, you can further injure the organ, as well as introduce an infection there. In this case, the help of an ENT doctor is necessary. To remove a foreign body, doctors use a special hook. The instrument is carefully inserted into the affected ear and pushed between the wall of the ear canal and the foreign body inside until the hook is behind it. Then the hook is turned, the foreign object is caught and the contents are removed.
Treatment of damage to the eardrum is carried out in a hospital in the otolaryngology department. In case of emergency admission, if necessary, the patient is stopped from bleeding using tamponade and a bandage. In the event that the secreted exudate is mucous- purulent character, The ENT doctor performs manipulations aimed at ensuring the free outflow of pus. In this case, a sterile gauze swab is placed in the ear canal, and after some time it is replaced. To liquefy the pus, a solution of hydrogen peroxide is poured into the affected ear ( 3% ), after which the purulent secretion is removed using a special probe with a cotton wool wound at the end.
After removing the pus, the ENT doctor uses a catheter to infuse such medicines How:
- dioxidine solution ( 0,5 – 1% ) – antimicrobial drug, which has a broad spectrum anti-inflammatory effect;
- antimicrobial drops tsipromed ( 0,3% ) , having a wide spectrum of antibacterial action;
- Otofa antibacterial drops ( 2,6% ) .
Antibiotic therapy
For inflammatory diseases of the middle ear, as well as in order to prevent the development of an infectious process, the patient is prescribed antibacterial drugs ( antibiotics) in the form of tablets and ear drops.By the nature of the effect on pathogenic microorganisms antibacterial agents are divided into two groups:
- bacteriostatic antibiotics, when used, bacteria do not die, but lose their ability to reproduce;
- bactericidal antibiotics, the intake of which leads to the death of bacteria.
| Name of the drug | Application |
| Amoxicillin | Adults and children over ten years of age
the drug is prescribed orally at 0.5 - 1.0 g three times a day. Children aged five to ten years Prescribe 0.25 g three times a day. Children aged two to five years prescribed 0.12 g three times a day. Children under two years old Prescribe 20 mg per kilogram of body weight, divided into three doses. |
| Lincomycin | The drug should be taken orally 0.5 g three times a day one hour before meals or two hours after meals. |
| Spiramycin | For adults
you need to take one tablet ( 3 million IU) orally, two to three times a day. Children weighing more than 20 kg prescribe 150 - 300 thousand IU ( international units) per kilogram of body weight, divided into two to three doses. |
| Ciprofloxacin | You need to take the drug one tablet at a time ( 0.25 – 0.5 g) orally, twice a day. |
| Azithromycin | The drug must be taken orally, once a day one hour before meals or two hours after meals. For adults Prescribe 0.5 g on the first day of admission, then the dose is reduced to 0.25 g from the second to the fifth day. For children An antibiotic is prescribed based on body weight. If a child weighs more than ten kilograms, he is prescribed ten milligrams per kilogram of body weight on the first day of admission and five milligrams per kilogram of body weight in the next four days. |
| Fugentin | For adults
It is necessary to instill two to five drops into the external auditory canal three times a day. For children The antibiotic is instilled one to two drops three times a day. |
| Tsipromed | Ear drops ( 0,3% ) should be instilled five drops into the external auditory canal three times a day. |
| Norfloxacin | The antibiotic is instilled into the external auditory canal, one to two drops four times a day. If necessary, on the first day of taking the drug, instill one or two drops every two hours. |
The course of antibiotic therapy should be at least eight to ten days, even in the case of a sharp improvement in the patient’s general condition.
Exist following features introducing antibacterial drops into the external auditory canal:
- before introducing antibacterial drops into the external auditory canal, it is necessary to warm the drug to body temperature;
- after instilling antibacterial drops, you must keep your head tilted back for two minutes;
- Instead of instillation, you can put a turunda soaked in an antibacterial drug in the ear or use an ear catheter.
Vasoconstrictor drugs
In order to reduce swelling and hyperemia of the mucous membrane of the middle ear, vasoconstrictors or astringents are prescribed in the form of nasal drops.| Name of the drug | Mode of application |
| Naphthyzin | Adults and children over fifteen years of age
you should instill one to three drops of the drug ( 0,1%
) in each nasal passage. The procedure should be repeated three to four times a day. The course of treatment is no more than one week. Children from two to five years old instill one or two drops of the drug ( 0,05% ) in each nasal passage. The procedure can be repeated two to three times a day, with an interval of at least four hours. The course of treatment is no more than three days. |
| Sanorin | |
| Galazolin | |
| Sanorin | |
| Tizin |
These drugs help restore and improve the drainage and ventilation function of the auditory tube. It should be noted that long-term use of these drugs can negatively affect the condition of the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity and auditory tube.
Mucolytic agents
If the perforation of the eardrum is accompanied by copious and thick discharge from the ear, the patient will be prescribed medications to thin the exudate.Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Anti-inflammatory drops are combined preparations and have a local anesthetic and disinfectant effect. After instillation medicines It is recommended to close the ear canal with a dry sterile swab.| Name of the drug | Mode of application |
| Phenazone | Four drops should be instilled into the external auditory canal two to three times a day for no more than ten days. |
| Otipax | Four drops are instilled into the external auditory canal two to three times a day. The course of treatment should not exceed ten days. |
| Otinum | Place three to four drops into the external auditory canal three or four times a day. The duration of treatment is no more than ten days. |
With minor perforation of the eardrum, the damaged part of the organ usually closes on its own, forming an unnoticeable scar. If the eardrum does not heal within a few months, you will need surgical intervention.
Surgery for damaged eardrum
A perforated eardrum leads to decreased protection of the middle and inner ear. As a result, frequent inflammatory diseases occur. If the protective function of the eardrum is not restored in time through surgery, the infection can spread into the intracranial space and cause irreversible complications. Indications for the operation are:
- disruption of the integrity of the eardrum due to inflammation or injury;
- hearing impairment;
- impaired mobility of the auditory ossicles.
Myringoplasty
Myringoplasty is performed to restore the integrity of the eardrum. During this operation, a small piece of fascia of the temporalis muscle is cut out above the patient's ear; this material will subsequently be used as a backfill for the damaged area of the eardrum.Microscopic instruments are then inserted into the external auditory canal under the control of a special microscope. Using instruments, the ENT surgeon lifts the eardrum, places a previously prepared flap at the perforation site and sews it with self-absorbable threads. After surgery, a tampon treated with an antibacterial drug is inserted into the external auditory canal. The patient is discharged with a bandage on the ear, which is removed after a week.
The suture material usually dissolves after two to three weeks. As a rule, this is quite enough for the injury to heal. During the first time after surgery, the patient may have painful sensations in the ear, as well as a feeling of discomfort. It is not recommended to sneeze with your mouth closed and inhale sharply through your nose.
Ossiculoplasty
If, after damage to the eardrum, the patient complains of hearing loss, ossiculoplasty will be recommended. This operation is aimed at restoring the sound-conducting system. In this case, the chain of auditory ossicles is reconstructed by replacing the damaged parts with prostheses. The operation is performed under local anesthesia.In the first days after surgery, the patient must observe strict bed rest.
Audiometry
To monitor your hearing status, it is recommended to undergo audiometry. Audiometry is a diagnostic procedure during which hearing acuity is determined. The study is carried out by an audiologist using a special device - an audiometer. During the procedure, the patient puts on headphones and takes a special handle in his hand, at the end of which there is a button. Sounds of different frequencies are successively fed into the headphones; if the subject clearly hears the sound, he should press the handle button. At the end of the procedure, the doctor evaluates the patient’s audiogram, based on which he determines the degree of hearing loss.If, due to perforation of the eardrum, the mobility or integrity of the auditory ossicles is impaired, then it is necessary to perform an operation - tympanoplasty. With this surgical intervention, artificial auditory ossicles are removed and implanted.
Preventing eardrum rupture
The main preventive actions to prevent eardrum rupture are:- timely treatment of inflammatory diseases of the ENT organs;
- immediate appeal see a doctor if your hearing worsens;
- careful toileting of the ears;
- child supervision;
- timely prevention of eardrum rupture during airplane flights.
- sucking lollipops;
- insert cotton wool or earplugs into the external auditory canal;
- massage the ears index finger;
- open your mouth during takeoff and landing.
ABOUT perforation of the eardrum they say when there is a hole or gap in it. The eardrum is a thin, funnel-shaped skin that separates the ear canal from the middle ear. The role of the eardrum is to transmit air vibration - sound - to the hammer. Its vibrations are transmitted to this auditory ossicle, and further through the system of auditory ossicles - the incus and stapes - to the inner ear. If the eardrum is ruptured or has a hole in it, its vibrations may be disrupted, which in turn leads to hearing impairment.
In addition, the presence of a hole in this membrane allows infection to enter the middle ear cavity, which is fraught with its inflammation - otitis media.
What provokes / Causes of Perforation of the eardrum:
The reasons that lead to perforation (or injury to the eardrum) are various. These can be inflammatory processes in the ear, as well as ear injuries, including noise trauma.
Causes of perforation of the eardrum:
1. Inflammatory process in the middle ear. When there is inflammation in the middle ear—otitis media—discharge accumulates. This discharge may also be purulent. Due to the rather small volume of the middle ear cavity and due to the disruption of the outflow of this discharge through the Eustachian tube (since it is also blocked in this disease), the fluid that accumulates in the middle ear cavity puts pressure on the eardrum. In addition, the membrane is subject to purulent melting. As a result, they become thinner and break. This is manifested by the separation of pus from the ear. In this case, the membrane no longer serves as a barrier between the external environment and the middle ear.
2. Barotrauma or acoustic trauma(Latin baro - pressure). As mentioned above, when fluid accumulates with inside eardrum, it may rupture. However, the pressure from her outside can also lead to rupture. This happens, for example, when an open palm is suddenly applied to the ear; sometimes a rupture of the membrane can also occur in flight during the ascent or descent of the plane, when a change in pressure occurs. It is not for nothing that they advise opening your mouth or sucking candy to equalize the pressure on the eardrum, since in this case air enters the middle ear through the Eustachian (auditory) tubes with each sip.
3. Noise trauma. Sudden sharp noise(for example, an explosion) can also lead to rupture or perforation of the eardrum. In addition to a sharp decrease in hearing, severe noise in the ears (tinnitus) may occur. Over time, the tinnitus goes away and hearing is partially restored.
4. Foreign bodies. Sometimes when cleaning the ear canal, e.g. cotton swab or other objects, the eardrum may be injured. In addition, this promotes infection in the middle ear.
Risk factors for eardrum perforation
Risk factors that can lead to perforation or rupture of the eardrum include:
- Accumulation of fluid in the middle ear.
- Self-cleaning of ear wax with hard objects (sticks, cotton wool, etc.).
- Excessive scratching in the ear due to itching in the ears.
Symptoms of Perforation of the Eardrum:
A ruptured eardrum, especially at the very beginning, can be quite painful. Manifestations of perforation of the eardrum include:
- Sharp sharp pain in the ear.
- Clear or purulent discharge from the ear due to perforation of the membrane due to otitis media.
- Bloody discharge from the ear due to the traumatic nature of the perforation - a foreign body, direct trauma or noise trauma.
- Sudden decrease in pain when fluid breaks through the eardrum in otitis media.
- Hearing loss.
- Noise in ears.
Complications of eardrum perforation
Typically, a ruptured or perforated eardrum does not pose a serious threat to the patient's health and usually heals on its own within a few weeks.
But there can still be complications:
- Hearing loss. Usually this complication is temporary, and it occurs as the membrane rupture heals. Naturally, the larger the gap, the longer it takes to heal and the longer the hearing loss lasts. In addition, the location of the rupture or perforation also influences the degree of hearing loss. With severe traumatic brain injury, which is accompanied by damage to the structures of the middle or inner ear, hearing loss can be severe and permanent.
- Recurrent middle ear infection(chronic otitis media). Extensive perforation of the membrane or its rupture may be accompanied by recurrent infection of the middle ear cavity, resulting in the development of chronic inflammation. This may contribute to permanent hearing loss.
Diagnosis of perforation of the eardrum:
To diagnose membrane perforation, otoscopy. To do this, the doctor inserts a metal or plastic funnel into the ear. Next, the patient's auricle is pulled upward and backward. This technique allows you to even out the course of the ear canal, as a result, the eardrum becomes visible at its end. Light is directed into the ear canal. Perforation marks a hole in the eardrum. If it ruptures, the auditory ossicles of the middle ear may even be visible. In addition, depending on the cause of the rupture or perforation, there may be blood or pus in the lumen of the ear canal. If pus is present, the doctor uses a loop to remove a small amount of it to analyze and identify the pathogen and determine the effectiveness of antibiotics.
Treatment of perforation of the eardrum:
In most cases, membrane perforation heals on its own without complications within a few weeks. If the membrane does not heal, treatment is necessary.
1. Eardrum patch. If there is a small tear or perforation, the doctor can close it with a so-called paper patch. Before this, the edges of the tear are treated with a drug to stimulate growth, after which a paper patch is applied to the tear site. Three or four such procedures may be required to completely close the gap.
2. Surgery
. In case of a larger rupture or perforation of the membrane and if the above method is ineffective, surgical intervention may be required. An operation to restore the integrity of the eardrum is called tympanoplasty or myringoplasty. The operation is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small skin incision above the ear. A thin piece of skin is taken from it. It is used to stitch the hole in the eardrum. The surgeon inserts a special microscope into the ear canal and then the entire operation is carried out with its help through the ear canal. The eardrum is lifted and the flap is placed over the hole in it. Special absorbable materials are placed on both sides of the membrane to help hold the flap in the required position until it is completely healed. After a few weeks, this material is completely absorbed. A swab moistened with an antibiotic is placed in the ear canal for a period of three to four weeks until the flap is completely engrafted to the eardrum.
During the first time after surgery, you may experience some pain and discomfort. In addition, it is recommended not to blow your nose or make sudden sucking movements through your nose. This is due to the fact that on the back wall of the nasopharynx there are openings of the auditory (Eustachian) tubes, which connect the nasopharynx cavity with the tympanic cavity. The role of these pipes is to equalize the pressure in it. With sudden movements of air in the nasopharynx, the pressure in the tympanic cavity can increase, which leads to movement of the eardrum, and this, in turn, can lead to displacement of the flap and disruption of its healing.
Surgical closure of membrane perforation leads to:
- Preventing water from entering the middle ear while showering, bathing or swimming, and therefore preventing the development of infection in it.
- Improve hearing.
- Eliminate tinnitus.
- Prevention of the occurrence of a special cyst in the ear - cholesteatoma, which leads to chronic infection in the middle ear.
Prevention of perforation of the eardrum:
Preventing eardrum perforation
- Timely treatment of inflammatory diseases of the middle ear. If you have signs of inflammation of the middle ear: persistent dull pain, tinnitus and hearing loss - you should consult a doctor and not self-medicate.
Delay in timely treatment can lead to fluid accumulation in the middle ear and perforation of the membrane.
- Ear protection when flying on an airplane. If you have a cold or an allergic reaction, it is advisable to refrain from flying. It is also recommended to wear ear protection or chew gum or suck on candy during the flight.
- Try not to use sharp objects to remove wax from your ears, as they can easily damage your eardrum.
- Avoid excessive noise.
Which doctors should you contact if you have a perforated eardrum:
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Other diseases from the group Diseases of the ear and mastoid process:
| Brain abscess |
| Cerebellar abscess |
| Adhesive otitis media |
| Adhesive otitis media |
| Ludwig's tonsillitis |
| Sore throat with measles |
| Sore throat with scarlet fever |
| Sore throat of the lingual tonsil |
| Nasal abnormalities |
| Anomalies in the development of the paranasal sinuses |
| Atresia of the nasal cavity |
| Meniere's disease |
| Inflammatory diseases of the middle ear |
| Congenital preauricular fistula (parotid fistula) |
| Congenital anomalies of the pharynx |
| Hematoma and abscess of the nasal septum |
| Hypervitaminosis K |
| Hypertrophy of pharyngeal lymphoid tissue |
| Laryngeal sore throat |
| Diphtheria of the pharynx |
| Diphtheria of the nasal cavity |
| Zygomaticitis |
| Malignant tumors of the outer ear |
| Malignant tumors of the middle ear |
| Ulceration of the nasal septum |
| Foreign bodies in the nose |
| Foreign bodies of the ear |
| Deviated nasal septum |
| Paranasal sinus cysts |
| Labyrinthitis |
| Latent otitis media in children |
| Mastoiditis |
| Mastoiditis |
| Myringitis |
| Mucocele |
| Otitis externa |
| Otitis externa |
| Neuroma of the vestibulocochlear nerve |
| Sensorineural hearing loss |
| Nose bleed |
| Burns and frostbite of the nose |
| Tumors of the nose and paranasal sinuses |
| Orbital complications of diseases of the nose and paranasal sinuses |
| Osteomyelitis of the maxilla |
| Acute sinusitis |
| Acute purulent otitis media |
| Acute primary tonsillitis |
| Acute rhinitis |
| Acute sinusitis |
| Acute otitis media in children |
| Acute serous otitis media |
| Acute sphenoiditis |
| Acute pharyngitis |
| Acute frontal sinusitis |
| Acute ethmoiditis |
| Otoanthritis |
| Otogenic brain abscess |
| Otogenic meningitis |
| Otogenic sepsis |
| Otomycosis |
| Otosclerosis |
| Facial nerve paresis |
| Perichondritis of the external ear |
| Petrosit |
| Damage to the nasal cavity due to influenza |
| Damage to the nasal cavity due to whooping cough |
| Damage to the nasal cavity due to measles |
| Damage to the nasal cavity in cerebrospinal meningitis |
Majority ear diseases are treated locally with special drops, but not all drugs can be used if the patient has a ruptured eardrum.
What reasons can cause perforation? What ear drops can be used to treat pathologies of the hearing organ in case of a ruptured eardrum?
Common causes of membrane rupture
The selection of ear drops for ear treatment due to a ruptured eardrum should only be made by an otolaryngologist. The specialist will assess the condition of the cavity behind the perforated membrane and determine the real reason your ailment and will select medications that will cope with the existing inflammatory process without harming the functionality of the hearing organ.
The reasons for the rupture of the membrane separating outer section ear from the tympanic cavity, may be:
- Barotrauma;
- acoustic trauma;
- mechanical injury, for example, when cleaning ears;
- temporal bone fracture;
- thermal damage at home and at work;
- purulent otitis.
For ordinary citizens, the most common cause of membrane rupture is purulent otitis media.
In this case, the gradual accumulation of exudate in the tympanic cavity leads to strong and painful tension of the film. In the end, the eardrum cannot withstand the pathogenic influence and pressure of the purulent masses and bursts.
Signs of membrane rupture
A ruptured eardrum can be identified by specific signs.
If the membrane has been perforated as a result of trauma (mechanical, pressure or acoustic), then patients experience sharp pain. If the eardrum ruptures due to the accumulation of pus in the middle ear cavity, the symptoms will be slightly different. The painful sensations of pressure, pain and shooting in the ear end abruptly as soon as a hole appears in the membrane through which exudate flows into the ear canal.
After perforation, patients experience the following symptoms:
- Tinnitus may occur;
- due to loss of mobility of the eardrum, the quality of hearing decreases;
- purulent masses (with otitis media) or bloody and bloody discharge(with the traumatic nature of membrane rupture).
Any painful sensations in the organ of hearing, as well as the appearance of purulent or bloody discharge from the ear canal, require examination by a specialist and the appointment of the therapy necessary for each case.
The presence of perforation in the membrane not only negatively affects the quality of sound perception by patients, but a rupture of the membrane seems to open an entrance for infection in the middle part of the ear. During the period of scarring of the connective tissue, you should take care to protect the hearing organ from pathogenic bacteria and fungi - this is the purpose of the ear drops that your otolaryngologist will prescribe for you.
Types of ear drops
Drugs local action will be selected by a specialist based on what exactly caused the rupture of the eardrum.
Ear drops are:
- Antibacterial. These drops in the ear for perforation are prescribed if bacteria are the cause of the development of a purulent form of otitis. Also, this type of drug is used for preventive purposes in order to prevent pathogenic flora that has penetrated through the perforation from developing an inflammatory process in the tympanic cavity.
- Painkillers. These drops eliminate painful symptoms that accompany injuries and inflammatory processes.
- Antifungal. Drops that fight fungus are prescribed for mycoses and as a preventive measure against the background of antibacterial therapy.
- Anti-inflammatory. This type drugs are used to relieve extensive inflammation against the background of injury and purulent processes.
- Antiseptic. Disinfectant drops include: complex therapy if necessary, sanitation of the tympanic cavity.
What medications are allowed for perforation?
Not all ear drops presented on pharmacy shelves are approved for use against the background of a perforated eardrum. The composition of many of them is quite aggressive and can harm the fragile and thin structure of the middle cavity and inner part of the ear.
To choose the right ear drops for a perforated eardrum, you should consult an ENT specialist. The doctor will prescribe you the appropriate medications that will successfully cope with all the problems in your hearing organ without harming the functionality of the damaged ear.
At the moment, pharmacists do not have a universal remedy for treating ears due to membrane rupture. You may need to use several medications, each of which will treat a specific problem.
Your doctor may prescribe the following ear drops that are approved for use in cases of membrane perforation:
- Otipax. These are anti-inflammatory steroid drops with lidocaine. They not only extinguish the activity of pathogenic flora and relieve swelling of the mucous membrane, but also have a good analgesic effect. But this drug does not have soft action, and is not always able to cope with severe inflammation. Also, its use will be useless in the fight against bacterial infection.
- Otofa. These ear drops are also approved for the treatment of the hearing organ due to perforation. They are effective in combating severe inflammatory processes, but do not have an analgesic effect.
- Sofradex. These drops will be effective for bacterial purulent otitis media, but their composition is quite aggressive. If the substance gets into the inner ear, it can cause hearing problems, so otolaryngologists try to be careful when prescribing this drug against the background of perforation.
- Candibiotic. These are complex drops that combine antifungal and antibacterial effects.
- Amoxicillin. The most popular ENT antibiotic is also available in the form of ear drops. It has a broad spectrum of action and copes with most bacteria, causing inflammation in the ears.
Features of use
Ear drops prescribed by an otolaryngologist should be used strictly according to the regimen prescribed by your attending physician. These recommendations especially relate to the use of antibacterial drugs.
- Instillation of funds into the ears should be strictly timed, observing the dosage and intervals indicated by the doctor;
- If you experience discomfort or side effects, inform your treating otolaryngologist, and if necessary, he will prescribe you a different drug;
- do not stop treatment immediately after symptom relief - antibacterial agents should be continued to the end in accordance with the recommendations of the otolaryngologist;
- At the end of the course of treatment, even if there are no complaints, be sure to see a specialist - he will evaluate the results of therapy and the rate of scarring of the eardrum.
The eardrum is a kind of separator between the middle and outer parts of the ear. She performs very important functions: protects the ear from foreign objects and microorganisms entering it, and is also used to transmit sound vibrations. But sometimes a ruptured eardrum is caused by injury or a long-term inflammatory process.
In some cases, if the perforation has a slit-like shape, healing occurs spontaneously, with full restoration functions. But if the perforation was significant, a scar remains, and this may lead to the development of hearing loss.
The structure of the membrane
The eardrum has an outer, middle and inner layer. It is the middle layer that is susceptible to tearing due to weak elasticity. But he is able to recover.
In addition, there are 2 components of the eardrum:
- The tensioned part is attached to the drum ring and consists of the above layers. Constantly in tension.
- The loose part does not have a fibrous layer and is attached to the temporal bone.
Behind the eardrum is a cavity called the middle ear. It is connected to the nasopharynx using the auditory tube. It is this that regulates the pressure on the eardrum from the inside and can be torn mechanically, as a result of impact or inflammation.
Types of perforation
There are two types of eardrum perforation:
- Regional. The membrane in my ear burst down to the bone tissue.
- Obodkovaya. In this case, the tissues of the tympanic ring are not damaged.
During an examination of the damaged membrane, the doctor determines the extent of the damage, the shape of the perforation of the edges, and the location of the hole.
If the damage is minor, the symptoms of perforation of the eardrum are subtle. Blood from the ear does not always indicate serious problems. This is possible if there is damage small vessels located near the hammer handle. Serious injury involves parts of the ear such as the muscles of the tympanic cavity and the auditory ossicles. In any case, bleeding means that a traumatic perforation of the eardrum has occurred.
Purulent discharge from the ear canal during perforation of the eardrum indicates the presence of a serious inflammatory process in the middle ear. It is possible that this is precisely why the damage occurred. The pus is taken for analysis.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a ruptured eardrum in in a rare case go unnoticed. There are several symptoms that indicate this problem. Namely:
- Painful sensations varying degrees. A clear sign inflammation that has developed in the middle ear is considered pain. This can cause the membrane to rupture, and the pain goes away immediately. If the membrane is torn as a result of injury, then severe pain occurs.
- Discharge from the ear. If the discharge is purulent in nature, this indicates the presence of inflammation, which was the cause of perforation. Bloody discharge occurs due to mechanical damage.
- Hearing loss. This symptom develops due to fluid (pus) that has accumulated in the middle ear as a result of otitis media.
- Noise. Sounds may occur in the ears due to trauma from the explosion. of different nature: whistle, hiss, ringing, hum. Also, these signs may indicate the presence of inflammation or a ruptured membrane.
- Heat. As a rule, with otitis media the patient’s body temperature rises to 39ºC. This may be accompanied by chills and general weakness.
- Dizziness. Inflammation of the middle ear, as well as disruption of the vestibular apparatus, lead to dizziness.
- Nausea and vomiting. Unpleasant sensations in the throat, accompanied by the urge to vomit, indicate perforation of the eardrum, the symptom of which is nausea. This can be caused by purulent otitis media, traumatic brain injury or acoustic trauma.
Examination of the damaged ear
External inspection
To determine the nature of the damage, the ENT performs a routine external examination. Manipulations are carried out in proper lighting. Most often, the ENT combines it with palpation to determine how painful the tissues are and the nature of their changes. The inspection makes it possible to discover:
- damage to the auricle (deformation, hole in the membrane);
- presence of damage behind the ear;
- swelling of the mastoid process;
- discharge from the ear;
- damage to the facial nerve;
- unhealed scars from previous injuries and interventions;
- enlarged lymph nodes near the ear;
- condition of the external passage.
A healthy ear looks like this:
- the skin of the ear has a pale pink tint;
- the tragus and mastoid process are absolutely painless when touched;
- no scars;
- the ear canal is clean and not narrowed.
The next stage of the examination is otoscopy
Otoscopy helps to examine not only the outside of the ear, but also to detect a ruptured eardrum. The examination is done using instruments such as an ear specula and a frontal reflector. This study makes it possible to assess the extent of perforation of the tympanic membrane.
In some situations, laboratory diagnostics are required. It includes a blood test from a vein and examination of the exudate for bacteria. If there is an inflammatory process in the middle ear, a blood test will show an increase in the number of leukocytes and a high ESR. As for bacteriological analysis, it is carried out by placing exudate extracted from the ear into a special environment in which microorganisms will begin to multiply. This will make it possible to determine what type of pathogen causes inflammation and prescribe the correct treatment.
Computed tomography (CT) of the temporal bones
Sometimes a ruptured eardrum requires a CT scan. It helps to examine the middle and inner ear in detail. The procedure itself lasts several minutes. Typically, a CT scan is prescribed if the patient is in pain, has decreased hearing, has discharge from the ear, or has an injury to the temporal region.
Treatment
First aid
A ruptured eardrum allows infection to enter the ear. In this situation, the patient should not try to rinse the ear. Simply cover the external auditory canal with a clean cotton ball. You can take a mild pain reliever. Then the patient must be taken to the hospital. During the journey, it is not advisable to throw your head back or make sudden movements. You should not try to remove a foreign object or insect from your ear on your own. This may make the situation worse.
If there is a foreign body in the ear, the ENT removes it using a special hook-shaped instrument. If there is bleeding from the ear, the doctor stops the bleeding with a cotton swab and applies a bandage. If there is purulent discharge, the exudate is taken from the hole for analysis. The doctor removes the accumulated pus by creating a free outflow. If necessary, the pus is diluted with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution.
The patient is prescribed infusions that have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Thanks to this, treatment of perforation of the eardrum gives good result. How long it takes to heal depends on how bad the tear was.
Treatment with antibiotics
A ruptured eardrum, treated with antibiotics, will not lead to the development of infectious processes in the middle ear.
Antibiotics are prescribed in the form of tablets or a solution for instillation into the ear. Drops can be used in different ways:
- the solution is heated before use;
- after instillation, the head must be thrown back;
- drops are injected with a catheter into the ear canal.
Typically, the course of treatment with antibiotics takes 8-10 days, even if the gap is not extensive.
Surgery
If the eardrum ruptures, the inner part of the ear is deprived of the necessary protection. It is subject to frequent inflammation. Timely surgical intervention will help avoid problems such as hearing loss and infection of the intracranial space. Surgery is indicated for hearing loss and when the perforation is assessed as extensive.
Myringoplasty
Myringoplasty can help repair damage to the eardrum. The material for this is taken from the temporal muscle. Then, using a microscope and instruments, the doctor sews a piece of skin to the perforated eardrum. There are no stitches left after this operation, as it is performed with self-absorbable threads. The ear canal is treated with an antibacterial compound and covered with a bandage. A week after the doctor’s examination, the bandage is removed and the patient forgets about the problem.
Perforated otitis occurs as a complication of acute purulent otitis, in which there is a violation of the integrity of the eardrum separating the outer and middle ear. When the integrity of a part of the ear organ is damaged, deafness, hearing loss and impaired perception of sounds often occur.
This disease is dangerous due to the development of a secondary infection, which occurs due to perforation of the eardrum. In this case, the ear is most vulnerable to various pathogenic bacteria or infections.
According to statistics, membrane perforation is most common in children under 5 years of age.
- acute or chronic inflammation in the middle ear, in which discharge accumulates in its cavity, affecting the eardrum and causing its thinning and rupture;
- entry of a foreign object that has a traumatic mechanical effect on the membrane and causes its rupture;
- external and internal, acoustic and barotrauma of the ears. Can lead to membrane rupture high pressure from the outside, a sharp blow with an open palm on the auricle, pressure fluctuations during takeoff and landing of an airplane, a loud sharp sound.
- migration of infection from organs close to the ear: oropharynx, maxillary sinus, frontal sinus, nasal passages;
- technically incorrect performance of medical procedures;
- traumatic injuries of the skull;
- introduction of infection through the bloodstream in diseases such as influenza, scarlet fever, etc.
Diagnostics
Diagnosis of purulent otitis is carried out by otoscopy performed by a medical specialist. Otoscopy is a simple, painless procedure during which a plastic or metal funnel is inserted into the external auditory canal, the auricle is pulled upward to align the ear canal, and the eardrum is visually inspected.
Membrane rupture most often occurs in lower quadrant and is a triangular slit with jagged edges from which pus can come out. If present, the doctor will take a small amount of liquid for bacteriological analysis to determine the causative agent of the disease and select antibacterial therapy. How larger size perforation - the more impaired hearing.
Symptoms
Sharp pain in the ear may indicate a ruptured eardrum.
Otitis without perforation is characterized by:
- sudden onset of the disease with an increase in body temperature to 39 degrees;
- pain in the ear, radiating to the temple and teeth on the affected side;
- hearing loss and noise in the ear;
- general weakness and malaise.
Purulent perforated otitis is characterized by:
- sharp, often severe pain in the ear;
- weakening or loss of hearing in the ear on the affected side;
- discharge of pus, often with an unpleasant odor, perhaps mixed with blood from the sore ear;
- ringing, noise, discomfort in the ear;
- dizziness, nausea;
- subsidence of pain after fluid drains from the ear.
The release of air from the ear indicates a complete rupture of the eardrum. After the perforation of the membrane has occurred, with the successful drainage of fluid from the middle ear, slow recovery hearing sensitivity. Small perforations can heal on their own. Large perforations must be treated and may be observed degenerative changes eardrum.
Perforation with otitis media in children
Most often, children under three years of age suffer from otitis media, which is facilitated by their anatomical features. In children, the auditory tube is shorter, wider and more horizontal than in adults. Tympanic cavity in children younger age filled with peculiar connective tissue, predisposing to the development of infection here.
Children have less body resistance to infections, weaker system immunity. Such “childhood” diseases as adenoids, acute tonsillitis and adenoiditis only contribute to the frequent recurrence and occurrence of otitis media.
It is important to pay attention to the symptoms of the disease in time. If the child is not yet two years old, then he will indicate pain by worrying, crying, or refusing food. When you press on the tragus of the ear, the baby's crying will intensify, which will confirm the diagnosis.
Important: If this diagnosis is confirmed in a child, under no circumstances allow water to get into the ear canals. This may cause various complications, which are fraught total loss hearing
Treatment
Ear drops for perforation of the eardrum are selected by the attending physician.
Treatment of perforated otitis should be carried out in a hospital by an ENT doctor and may include:
- the use of a special patch for the eardrum, which helps restore its original integrity;
- ear drops with local anesthetic and antibacterial effect (Anauran, Otofa);
- angistamines (Tavegil, Cetrin, Loratadine);
- vasoconstrictor drops that facilitate nasal breathing and promote better outflow of fluid from the ear (Otrivin, Naphthyzin);
- systemic antibacterial therapy (prescribed after examination by a doctor);
- warming semi-alcohol compress on the ear;
- surgical intervention can be used in case of big size perforation or in the absence of effect from the above treatment methods.
Surgical treatment involves applying a bone patch to the site of perforation. A skin flap is taken from the area above the ear and sutured with thin absorbable material around the perimeter of the ruptured membrane. Subsequently, the transplanted area will take root and hearing will be restored.
Which doctor should I contact?
If you have symptoms characteristic of acute or perforated otitis media, you should immediately contact an otolaryngologist
Prevention
Preventive measures play an important role, especially in children, since the disease is prone to recurrence. Necessary:
- treat developed infections, diseases of the throat, nose, and ears correctly and in a timely manner;
- do not use sharp objects to clean the external auditory canals;
- avoid exposure to excessive noise;
- support immune system body;
- teach your child how to blow his nose and sneeze correctly;
- protect external ear canals from exposure to airplane noise (wear protective headphones), suck on a lollipop during takeoff and landing of the airplane.
Inflammatory processes of the middle ear require a correct approach and immediate treatment. These conditions do not pose a great danger, but it is important to follow preventive measures to avoid complications and relapses of the disease.
