Ear perforation

Keep Ears Dry

Water or other liquids placed inside the ear can cause infection and delay healing. Only use medications prescribed by your doctor—avoid putting any other types of liquids into the ear. Use a shower cap or apply Vaseline to cotton balls and place them inside of your ears while showering or bathing to help ensure the area stays dry. Avoid swimming or submerging your head in water while the perforation heals.
Cleaning

 

Avoid using cotton swabs or other items to clean the ear while it heals. While it might itch or feel dirty during the healing process, it is important to allow it to heal completely before trying to clean it. Inserting any type of ear wax removal objects inside of the ear can make the rupture worse.
Apply Warmth

 

Ease the pain of a ruptured ear drum by applying a heating pad or hot compress onto the area. The heat can help soothe any swelling, as well as offer you some relief for this often painful condition.
Medications

 

Ask your doctor to recommend over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief medications that you can safely use while waiting for the perforation to heal. Call your healthcare provider if you experience any signs of infection, such as fever or pus-like discharge.
Protect Your Ears

 

Avoid blowing your nose while waiting for the perforation to heal since the pressure created during the process can worsen the rupture. You should also protect your ears from cold air by wearing a hat or ear muffs. After your rupture heals, the Mayo Clinic recommends you avoid flying with a cold or congestion and use earplugs during airplane flights to keep from suffering a recurrence of this condition. Always treat any type of ear infections promptly to avoid eardrum perforations and other damage to the ears.