Audiology/Otolaryngology/perforated ear drum

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Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 8/15/2009


Question
I have had a perforated ear drum for probably longer than i have know but have known about it for around 4 years now. I have just delt with it accordingly except i went swimming yesterday and now i believe that ear wax may have gotten pushed into the perforation and stuck there because my hearing outside my ear has been decreased dramatically but i can still here myself chew and everything that you would here on the inside of your head really well. Is there any possible home solutions to my problem or should i A) wait for it to correct itself or B) go see a doctor about my issue?

Answer
Hi Christopher,
You need to have your ear examined by an ENT.  With a perforated eardrum, there is no protection for the delicate middle ear and it is open to invasion by any number of things, including water, foreign objects, bugs, etc.  If you do have something in the middle ear, it needs to be removed and the ear treated to prevent infection.  And, while you are at the ENT, you should ask him about getting custom swimplugs for your ears to prevent further damage.

Hope this helps.
Dr. Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology

Audiology/Otolaryngology

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Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D.

Expertise

I am a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology with 25 years of experience. I can answer questions regarding hearing loss, both general and specific, dizziness and vertigo, auditory processing disorders, hearing aids, aural rehabilitation as well as specialized audiologic testing, i.e., Auditory Brainstem Response, VideoNystagmography, Otoacoutic Emissions. I have worked with both pediatric and adult populations. Because of my extensive musical background, I am able to respond to questions regarding the special needs of musicians.

Experience

I have been an audiologist for over 25 years with a specialty in electrophysiology of the auditory and vestibular systems and pediatric evaluations. I currently work in my private consulting practice providing services to nursing homes and schools. My Doctoral research was on specialized techniques in Auditory Brainstem Responses.

Organizations
American Academy of Audiology, - American Speech Language Hearing Association, - Hearing Loss Association of America

Education/Credentials
Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology), Nova Southeastern University, 2000. Board Certified Doctor of Audiology (American Board of Audiology) Certificate in Audiology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

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