What Are the Causes of a Ruptured Ear Drum in an Infant?

There are several ways a baby's eardrum can rupture. A ruptured eardrum is a cavity in the thin tissue that protects the inner ear from the environment. The injury usually will heal itself in a few weeks, but consult a doctor anyway for an expert diagnosis.

  1. Head Injury

    • A ruptured eardrum can be caused by a bump to the head.

      A head injury as simple as a fall or even a bump on the head can create a rupture. A rupture caused this way might leave the child with ears ringing, loss of some hearing and maybe a little blood loss.

    Foreign Object

    • Even cotton swabs can puncture an eardrum.

      A foreign object put in the ear can poke a hole in the thin barrier. Be on the lookout for babies trying to put things in their ears.

    Loud Noises

    • Monitor noise levels and keep them at a safe volume to protect your infant's hearing.

      Excessively loud noises create a pressure blast that, if loud enough, can blow out an eardrum. This is an extreme case, though. Hearing loss begins with exposure to everyday sounds like the radio, TV or lawn mower.

    External Pressure Changes

    • A common concern when traveling with babies is that airplane cabin pressure will make the baby fussy. Unless this pressure is alleviated, it can lead to a ruptured eardrum.

    Internal Pressure Changes

    • Ear infections can cause a rupture if there is too much buildup of pressure from the infection in the middle ear.

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