Suggest Treatment For Ruptured Ear Drum

Posted on Tue, 13 Jan 2015

Question: I have a ruptured ear drum. My doctor wants me to have surgery. I am very sensitive to alot of medications and fear being completely put out,..... Any suggestions on what the alternatives might be?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Alternative to surgery is to wear a hearing aid...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query. I do understand your concern; I will try my best to help you with this.

Small perforation of the eardrum can be left alone and if the nose is taken care off, then the hole in the eardrum heals by itself. Perforation of the medium and large size requires surgical repair.

If you fall in the second category, and wants to avoid surgery, the other best option is to wear a hearing aid. But, this has its own limitations.

In this age of yours, I would suggest you to go for a hearing aid rather than surgery.

Meanwhile, to reduce the pressure sensation in the ear, try to do steam inhalation and drink plenty of warm water. Avoid water into the ear and keep your ears dry. Wear ear plugs if you plan to swim or while taking shower. Avoid chilled food/beverages and smoking. As far as possible, try to avoid getting common cold or flu.

Hope I have answered your query; I will be available for the follow-up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju