What is the Difference Between Ear Infection and Ruptured Eardrum?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between an ear infection and a ruptured eardrum is that an ear infection is an inflammation or infection of the middle ear, while a ruptured eardrum is a hole or tear in the thin tissue that separates the outer ear from the middle ear.
Ear infection, or otitis media, often results from the accumulation of fluids in the middle ear, which can cause the eardrum to rupture. Ruptured eardrums may lead to symptoms such as ear pain, mucus-like or bloody drainage from the ear, hearing loss, and ringing in the ear.
Some common causes of a ruptured eardrum include:
- Middle ear infection
- A very loud noise close to the ear, such as a gunshot
- Rapid change in ear pressure, which may occur when flying, scuba diving, or driving in the mountains
- Foreign objects in the ear
- Injury to the ear, such as from a powerful slap or explosion
- Inserting cotton-tipped swabs or small objects into the ears to clean them
Ruptured eardrums typically heal on their own, but it takes time for them to heal. If you have a ruptured eardrum that isn’t healing, or if you experience symptoms such as severe dizziness, fever, hearing loss, or extreme pain, it is important to consult a healthcare provider right away.
Comparative Table: Ear Infection vs Ruptured Eardrum
Here is a table comparing the differences between ear infection and ruptured eardrum:
Feature | Ear Infection | Ruptured Eardrum |
---|---|---|
Definition | An infection of the middle ear, caused by bacteria or viruses, leading to fluid build-up behind the eardrum | A hole or tear in the eardrum, which can result from infection, trauma, or injury |
Symptoms | Earache, discomfort, fluid or pus build-up behind the eardrum, potential hearing loss | Hearing loss, discomfort, cloudy fluid drainage from the ear canal |
Causes | Bacterial or viral infection of the middle ear | Rupture due to infection, trauma, injury, or insertion of objects into the ear |
Treatment | Antibiotics or other medications for infection, depending on the cause | Keeping the ear dry and avoiding infection, over-the-counter painkillers for pain or discomfort, possible surgical repair in more severe cases |
Healing Time | Can vary depending on the severity of the infection and treatment | Usually heals within a few weeks or months, provided the ear is kept dry and no further complications arise |
Please note that the information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice.
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