The eardrum (tympanic membrane) has two primary roles: Severe injury, such as a skull base fracture, may cause the dislocation of or damage to middle and inner ear structures, including the eardrum. Small objects, such as a cotton swab or hairpin, can puncture or tear the eardrum. A loud sound or blast, as from an explosion or gunshot - essentially an overpowering sound wave - can rarely cause a tear in the eardrum. Loud sounds or blasts (acoustic trauma). Other events that can cause sudden changes in pressure - and possibly a ruptured eardrum - include scuba diving and a direct blow to the ear, such as the impact of an automobile air bag. Barotrauma is most often caused by air pressure changes associated with air travel. If the pressure is severe, the eardrum can rupture. Barotrauma is stress exerted on the eardrum when the air pressure in the middle ear and the air pressure in the environment are out of balance. Pressure from these fluids can cause the eardrum to rupture.īarotrauma. A middle ear infection often results in the accumulation of fluids in the middle ear. The cochlea, a snail-shaped structure, is part of your inner ear.Ĭauses of a ruptured (perforated) eardrum may include: A narrow path called the eustachian tube joins the middle ear to the back of the nose and upper part of the throat. The eardrum keeps the bones away from the outer ear. The middle ear has three small bones - the hammer, or malleus the anvil, or incus and the stirrup, or stapes.
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