Can a perforated eardrum caused by otitis media in children heal on its own?
Disease description:
My niece experienced ear pain this week and went to the hospital for examination. The doctor diagnosed her with suppurative otitis media with tympanic membrane perforation. I would like to ask: can a child's eardrum perforation caused by otitis media heal on its own?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xu Gang
Tympanic membrane perforation in pediatric patients with otitis media cannot heal on its own. This condition occurs when the middle ear cavity becomes infected with bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens, leading to excessive production of purulent secretions and resulting in impaired Eustachian tube function. If the underlying infection is not completely eradicated, the eardrum perforation will not heal spontaneously. Larger perforations can impair hearing and may require surgical repair, such as tympanoplasty. Patients with perforations should take care to avoid instilling any medication directly into the ear canal.
