HomeAnswersOtolaryngology (E.N.T)ear bleedingDoes bleeding from ear due to q-tip mean damage to eardrum or bony canal membrane?

I had bleeding from ear due to q-tip. Is it due to damage of eardrum or bony canal membrane?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At October 15, 2018
Reviewed AtJuly 19, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

When cleaning out my ear, I forced the q-tip too deep and blood came out. There was no stream of blood, but after mostly lying on my side while sleeping, I found very small dots on my pillow (I would say the size of the tip of a pencil). There is little to no hearing loss after a full night. However, I often have to swallow to pop my ear. I did some research on my own, but I am not certain if this is damage to the bony canal membrane or to the eardrum. Do you think this is an emergency that requires a visit to the ENT or not?

Answered by Dr. Sanjeev Davey

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Please see an ENT specialist as early as possible to get your eardrum checked.

The Probable causes

Trauma.

Investigations to be done

Pure tone audiogram and otoscopy.

Differential diagnosis

TM (tympanic membrane) perforation.

Probable diagnosis

TM perforation.

Treatment plan

Avoid water entry during the bath.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sanjeev Davey
Dr. Sanjeev Davey

Otolaryngology (E.N.T)

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