Eardrum Damage from Diving: Recovery and Treatment Options

Q: Eardrum Damage from Diving: Recovery and Treatment Options

Hello： 1) There is still a possibility of natural healing, and you can regularly visit the otolaryngology clinic to monitor if the perforation is decreasing in size. <br>2) If there is no significant reduction, surgical repair may be considered. <br>3) Hearing may deteriorate due

Due to eardrum rupture issues from diving?

Hello, due to ear pressure imbalance while diving, my left eardrum has been damaged by about 30% (date: July 7).
I would like to ask: 1) At the age of 55, is there still a possibility of self-healing? How long might it take? 2) If it cannot heal on its own, what are the treatment options? 3) Will there be any hearing loss? 4) What are the care and precautions after recovery? 5) Can I fly on July 26? What precautions should I take? 6) After the eardrum repair is completed, will I be able to dive again? Thank you.

chung, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/10

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: 1) There is still a possibility of natural healing, and you can regularly visit the otolaryngology clinic to monitor if the perforation is decreasing in size.
2) If there is no significant reduction, surgical repair may be considered.
3) Hearing may deteriorate due to the tympanic membrane perforation, but if the perforation heals, hearing should improve accordingly.
4) It is recommended to use earplugs while bathing to prevent water from entering the ear and causing infection; if there is any discharge, you should return to the otolaryngology clinic for medication treatment.
5) If the tympanic membrane is already perforated, it is safe to fly, with no special precautions needed; generally, it is advised not to fly within three months post-surgery.
6) Diving is possible, but changes in pressure may cause the tympanic membrane to perforate again.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Jue-Yi Cheng, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2018/07/10

More Info

Eardrum damage, particularly from activities like diving, can be a concerning issue, especially for individuals over the age of 50. Let's address your questions regarding the recovery, treatment options, and precautions related to your eardrum injury.

1. Self-Healing Potential: At 55 years old, there is still a possibility for your eardrum to heal on its own. The eardrum, or tympanic membrane, has a remarkable ability to regenerate. The healing process can vary significantly from person to person, but generally, small perforations can heal within a few weeks to a couple of months. Regular follow-ups with an ENT specialist are essential to monitor the healing progress and ensure that the perforation is decreasing in size.

2. Treatment Options: If the eardrum does not show signs of healing after a reasonable period (usually a few weeks), surgical intervention may be necessary. The most common procedure is a tympanoplasty, where the perforated eardrum is repaired using a graft. This surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and has a good success rate. Your ENT specialist will guide you on the best course of action based on the size of the perforation and your overall health.

3. Hearing Loss: It is common for individuals with a perforated eardrum to experience some degree of hearing loss. The extent of this loss can depend on the size and location of the perforation. However, if the eardrum heals properly, hearing should improve significantly. Regular hearing assessments will help determine the impact on your auditory function.

4. Post-Recovery Care and Precautions: After the eardrum has healed, certain precautions should be taken to protect your ear health. It is advisable to keep the ear dry and avoid water exposure, especially during bathing or swimming. Using earplugs can help prevent water from entering the ear canal. Additionally, if you experience any symptoms like pain, discharge, or changes in hearing, you should consult your ENT specialist immediately.

5. Flying After Injury: Regarding your question about flying on July 26, if your eardrum is still perforated, it is generally safe to fly, but you should be cautious. Changes in air pressure during flights can exacerbate discomfort or lead to further complications. If you have had surgery to repair the eardrum, it is usually recommended to avoid flying for at least three months post-operation. Always consult your ENT specialist before making travel plans to ensure your ear is stable enough for flying.

6. Diving After Repair: Once your eardrum has healed completely, you may be able to return to diving. However, it is crucial to discuss this with your ENT specialist, as they will assess your ear's condition and provide personalized advice. Diving can put significant pressure on the ears, and if there are any lingering issues, it may pose a risk of re-injury.

In summary, while there is a good chance for your eardrum to heal naturally, monitoring and possibly surgical intervention may be necessary. Protecting your ear during recovery and consulting with your healthcare provider about flying and diving will be essential steps in your healing process. Always prioritize your ear health and follow professional medical advice to ensure a safe and effective recovery.

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