EAR / PERFORATED EARDRUM
Perforated Eardrum Treatment and Repair in Bintulu, Sarawak
Assessment of eardrum injuries and holes, and advice on eardrum repair surgery, with consultant ENT surgeon Dr. Yasmin at Kemena Pacific Hospital.
WhatsApp the clinicWhat is a perforated eardrum?
A perforated eardrum is a hole or tear in the thin membrane between the ear canal and the middle ear. Many small holes heal on their own within weeks. Holes that do not heal can cause repeated discharge and reduced hearing, and may need repair.
Symptoms
- Sudden ear pain that eases quickly
- Discharge from the ear
- Reduced hearing
- Ringing in the ear
- Repeated ear infections, especially after water gets in
Common causes
- Middle ear infection
- Injury from cotton buds or other objects
- A slap or blow to the ear
- Sudden pressure changes, such as diving or flying
- Very loud noise
How Dr. Yasmin assesses and treats a perforated eardrum
Dr. Yasmin examines the eardrum under magnification and arranges a hearing test. Many holes heal by themselves if the ear is kept dry and infection is treated. If a hole does not heal after a few months, or keeps causing infections, she assesses whether eardrum repair surgery (myringoplasty) is suitable and explains what it involves.
When to see an ENT specialist
- Ear pain followed by discharge
- Reduced hearing after an injury to the ear
- Repeated discharge when water enters the ear
- A known eardrum hole that has not healed
FAQs
Will a perforated eardrum heal on its own?
Many small holes heal within a few weeks. Larger or long standing holes may need repair.
Can I swim with a perforated eardrum?
Keep water out of the ear until Dr. Yasmin confirms it has healed.
What is eardrum repair surgery?
A procedure that closes the hole using a small graft of your own tissue, to reduce infections and help hearing.