How long should I wait, and what should I do to heal the perforation in my eardrum?

Question

Hello doctor,

I was not able to hear properly. So I consulted an E.N.T specialist who said I have a 15 % hole in my eardrum. I said I felt that I had muffled hearing and a fullness feeling in my left ear after scuba diving. So I asked how long would it take to heal, and the doctor said it depends, but it should heal in a couple of months, like within six months. How long does a 15 % perforated eardrum heal? What should I do while waiting for it to heal? What should I expect to feel while it heals? Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern. Whether a 15 % perforated drum will heal spontaneously depends on how the perforation was caused and for how long the perforation has been there. If it is a new perforation caused by trauma like a sudden slap on the ear or accidental insertion of any object in the ear, it will heal completely with proper precautions. The drum heals with a thin, flimsy layer covering the perforation, then gradually thickens to normal thickness. Although the coverage or seal of the perforation with the thin layer happens in four to five weeks, the drum to grow to normal thickness may take up to five months. I suggest the following precautions to heal spontaneously. 1. Keep your ear dry, and do not allow even a single drop of water inside. 2. Never put earbuds or anything else inside the ear. 3. Avoid cold water, cool drinks, and ice cream. 4. Do not allow yourself to catch a cold. 5. Do not blow the nose forcefully. I hope this helps. Thank you and take care.