Signs You Might Have A Ruptured Eardrum

A ruptured eardrum, also known as a perforated tympanic membrane, can cause sudden pain, discomfort, and hearing issues. While the condition is often temporary and treatable, recognizing the symptoms early is key to avoiding complications like infections or long-term hearing loss.

At BASS Medical Group, our team of primary care providers (PCPs), ENTs, and audiologists can help diagnose and treat ear injuries, including eardrum ruptures. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Ruptured Eardrum?

The eardrum is a thin layer of tissue that separates your ear canal from your middle ear. It helps transmit sound and protects against infection. When this membrane tears or develops a hole, it’s referred to as a ruptured eardrum.

Common Symptoms of a Ruptured Eardrum

A ruptured eardrum may occur suddenly or gradually and often presents with one or more of the following symptoms:

• Sudden, sharp ear pain
• Partial hearing loss or muffled hearing in one ear
• Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
• Drainage from the ear, which may be clear, bloody, or pus-filled
• Vertigo or dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting (associated with balance issues from inner ear disruption)

If you experience these symptoms—especially after a loud noise, head injury, or upper respiratory infection—it’s important to schedule an evaluation promptly.

What Causes an Eardrum to Rupture?

Eardrum ruptures can result from:

• Ear infections that increase pressure inside the ear
• Sudden pressure changes (barotrauma), such as flying or diving
• Trauma to the ear, including foreign object insertion (like cotton swabs)
• Loud noises or explosions
• Head injuries

Avoiding cotton swabs or inserting objects into the ear canal can help prevent injury. Our ENT specialists at BASS Medical Group often treat patients for ear injuries related to improper ear cleaning.

How Serious Is a Ruptured Eardrum?

Most ruptured eardrums heal on their own within a few weeks, but that doesn't mean they should be ignored. Untreated perforations can lead to:

• Chronic ear infections
• Persistent fluid drainage
• Hearing loss
• Middle ear damage or scarring

Severe or non-healing ruptures may require a patch or surgical repair known as tympanoplasty.

When to See a Doctor

Seek care at BASS Medical Group if you notice:

• Persistent ear pain
• Discharge or fluid leaking from the ear
• Hearing loss lasting more than a few days
• Symptoms following trauma, infection, or air pressure changes

Your provider may refer you to one of our ENTs or audiologists for further evaluation, testing, and hearing support.

How We Can Help at BASS Medical Group

BASS Medical Group offers a comprehensive team of healthcare professionals specializing in ear care:

• Primary Care Providers (PCPs) – Initial evaluation and symptom management
• ENT Specialists (Otolaryngologists) – Diagnosis and surgical/non-surgical treatments
• Audiologists – Hearing tests and long-term hearing health management

If you're concerned about a possible ruptured eardrum or related symptoms, we’re here to help with compassionate, expert care in Walnut Creek, San Francisco, Oakland, and throughout the Bay Area.

Book an Appointment Today
Don’t wait for ear pain or hearing issues to worsen. Contact BASS Medical Group to schedule a consultation with one of our ENT or audiology specialists.