From the Research
Treatment for a ruptured eardrum typically involves allowing the eardrum to heal on its own while preventing infection, with most perforations healing spontaneously within 1-3 months 1. To manage a ruptured eardrum, it is essential to keep the ear dry by placing a cotton ball coated with petroleum jelly in the ear when showering or bathing, and avoid swimming until healing is complete (usually 1-2 months). Some key points to consider in the treatment of a ruptured eardrum include:
- Keeping the ear dry to prevent infection
- Avoiding swimming until the eardrum is healed
- Using antibiotic ear drops such as ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone (Ciprodex) if infection is present, typically 4 drops twice daily for 7-10 days
- Using oral antibiotics like amoxicillin (500mg three times daily for 7-10 days) for more severe infections
- Managing pain with over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) 650mg every 6 hours or ibuprofen (Advil) 400-600mg every 6-8 hours as needed For large perforations or those that don't heal naturally, surgical repair called tympanoplasty may be necessary, as indicated by the most recent and highest quality study 1. It is crucial to prioritize the treatment of a ruptured eardrum to restore its functions and prevent complications like middle ear infections or hearing loss, as the eardrum serves as protection against infection and helps with hearing. In terms of prognosis, most traumatic tympanic membrane perforations have a good prognosis with spontaneous resolution, but perforations lasting six months after injury warrant surgery 1. Overall, the treatment of a ruptured eardrum should focus on promoting spontaneous healing, preventing infection, and restoring the eardrum's functions to prevent long-term complications.