Introduction

Seek medical treatment as soon as possible for an examination of the ear if an ear infection is suspected.

Elderly people and people with high blood pressure  should use decongestants with caution.

Consult a doctor about treatment with available medications for an ear infection.

Prevention

Some causes of ruptured eardrums cannot be prevented or avoided. A little caution can lower the risk.

• Treat ear infections early.
• Avoid flying or scuba diving if you have sinus infection or upper respiratory tract infection.
• If you must fly or scuba dive, pinch your nose and swallow air frequently to help equalize the pressure.
• Never put anything in your ear, even to clean it (for example, Q-Tips).
• Wear proper ear protection such as ear plugs or protection designed for sports activities

Outlook

After a few weeks, the patient should notice no long-term symptoms. Perforated eardrums generally heal within two months, and any accompanying hearing loss  is usually temporary.

Rarely, a dangerous infection can spread into the brain or skull. This requires immediate hospitalization or surgery. Also, if the patient has symptoms of severe dizziness  and vomiting, facial paralysis, or hearing loss, more extensive surgery of the inner or middle ear may be required beyond patching the eardrum.