A ruptured eardrum is a tear or hole in the membrane of the middle
ear, usually as a result of injury (trauma). The eardrum may also rupture from
fluid buildup in the middle ear.
A person with fluid buildup in the ear may have severe pain that
gets better or goes away when the eardrum ruptures and the pressure is
relieved. A ruptured eardrum usually drains suddenly, leaking fluid that often
looks like pus and smells bad or may even be bloody.
The eardrum usually heals on its own in 1 to 2 weeks, usually
without hearing loss. However, the injury or infection that caused the rupture
usually requires treatment and a visit to a health professional.
