Answer:

A ruptured eardrum accompanying otitis media is a fairly common complication in young children. Acute otitis media can cause pus to accumulate inside the middle ear, putting pressure on the eardrum. When this pressure exceeds the eardrum's capacity, a small hole can form, allowing the infected fluid to drain. Many parents worry when they see fluid draining from their child's ear, but in the acute phase, a ruptured eardrum can sometimes help reduce pain and facilitate treatment.

The eardrum is thin but has a relatively good ability to regenerate, especially when the damage is minor and in a favorable location. The ability to heal naturally depends on the size of the perforation, the extent of inflammation, ear hygiene, and subsequent care.

A ruptured eardrum can heal within 1-4 weeks if the hole is small, there is no recurrent infection, and the child receives proper care (keeping water out of the ear and taking prescribed medication). You should take your child to the doctor for an examination to determine whether eardrum repair surgery is necessary or if the current perforation is small, clean, and likely to heal naturally. The doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication, antibiotics, or ear drops if needed, which should be administered according to the instructions, dosage, and duration.

A doctor examines a young girl's ear. Illustration: Tam Anh Hospital

To allow the eardrum to heal, the child needs to keep their ear dry, avoiding water entry while bathing or washing their hair. If water accidentally enters the middle ear while the eardrum is still perforated, the risk of re-inflammation and infection is very high, which can hinder the healing process. Avoid using cotton swabs or sharp objects to clean the child's ear, as this can further damage the healing eardrum or push bacteria deeper into the middle ear.

Typically, if after 4 weeks, the child has no more ear discharge, pain, fever, or signs of hearing loss, the eardrum is likely healing well. If after 2-3 months the perforation hasn't closed, and the child still experiences hearing loss, tinnitus, or continued ear discharge, parents should take their child for a follow-up examination to reassess the extent of the damage.

If the eardrum doesn't heal on its own, or if it doesn't heal completely, affecting hearing or resulting in repeated infections, the doctor may recommend a simple surgical procedure to repair the eardrum. This procedure is usually straightforward, with a quick recovery time and a high success rate if performed at the right time.

Dr. Nguyen Chi Trung

Otolaryngology Department

Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi