Does severe ear pain when blowing my nose mean the eardrum is ruptured?

Generally, severe ear pain during nose-blowing may result from pressure changes and does not necessarily indicate a ruptured eardrum, although unusual symptoms should be taken seriously. If in doubt, it is advisable to seek medical consultation promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:

If excessive force is used when blowing the nose, a sudden increase in nasal cavity pressure can transmit to the middle ear, causing brief but intense ear pain. In most such cases, the eardrum is not actually ruptured. The pain typically subsides gradually after stopping nose-blowing, and if there are no accompanying symptoms such as hearing loss or discharge from the ear, no special treatment is required—simply avoid forceful nose-blowing in the future.

However, if the severe pain persists or is accompanied by symptoms like hearing impairment, tinnitus, or bloody or pus-like discharge from the ear, it could indicate a perforated eardrum or a middle ear infection. These conditions often arise from excessive pressure damaging the eardrum or worsening of pre-existing ear inflammation. A professional medical examination is necessary for accurate diagnosis, as simple rest alone will not lead to recovery. Delayed treatment may negatively affect hearing.

In daily life, avoid blowing your nose too forcefully. It is recommended to gently blow by closing one nostril at a time. If you experience severe ear pain along with any abnormal symptoms, seek medical evaluation promptly to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.