Concerns About My Ruptured Eardrum and Ear Infection
I’m a 17-year-old male and about a month ago, I suffered a ruptured eardrum. Initially, I sought help at the emergency room where I was prescribed antibiotic ear drops and assured that I would recover within a week. I followed their instructions and completed the course. However, shortly after discontinuing the drops, I began to experience a persistent ringing in my ears that did not subside. This noise fluctuated, temporarily disappearing for a couple of days only to return. This has been ongoing for several weeks, and it's becoming quite distressing. Recently, I visited a doctor again, but this time in Ireland. Upon examining my ear, the physician indicated that there was an infection present, which complicated their ability to determine whether my eardrum had healed or remained ruptured, as my ear canal was filled with discharge. They prescribed antibiotic drops, specifically Genticin (Gentamicin 0.3%). The packaging indicated that the medication was ototoxic and unsuitable for use with a ruptured eardrum. Given this alarming information, I was anxious but trusted the doctor’s judgment. After administering the drops this morning, my hearing became immediately muffled, and the ringing intensified. Now that night has fallen, I haven’t noticed any improvement. What should my next step be? Should I return to the doctor or continue using the drops? Am I perhaps overreacting to this situation?
Answers (1)
9/13/2025, 12:40:42 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious when dealing with both a ruptured eardrum and a potential ear infection, especially with the added complication of medications that raise concerns. Here’s a structured overview of your situation and recommended immediate actions.
Main Points:
- Ringing in Ears (Tinnitus): The ringing can be linked to the rupture and the infection, and it's important to monitor this symptom closely.
- Use of Genticin (Gentamicin): This antibiotic can be ototoxic, particularly in cases of a ruptured eardrum, and may require reassessment given your symptoms.
- Next Steps: Prioritize reevaluating your symptoms and medication use based on your worsening condition.
Explanation:
The ringing in your ears (known as tinnitus) can result from your ear injury or infection and may be exacerbated by certain medications, especially if they affect the inner ear structure. The use of Genticin, which carries warnings about ototoxicity, especially in the context of a ruptured eardrum, can complicate your recovery. Your experience of immediate muffling and intensified ringing after starting the drops is concerning and suggests that this medication may not be suitable for your current condition.
Next Steps:
- Stop Using Genticin Drops: Given your worsening symptoms and the potential risks, it’s advisable to stop using the gentamicin drops immediately.
- Contact a Healthcare Provider Promptly: Reach out to a healthcare professional (doctor, pharmacist, or ear specialist) as soon as possible to report your symptoms. Provide them with details about your recent use of the drops and the increased ringing and muffled hearing.
- Consider an Ear Examination: Request a thorough examination to assess the state of your eardrum and to discuss alternative treatments, especially if there’s a persistent infection.
- Avoid Irritants: Keep your ear dry and refrain from getting water in it until you have received further medical advice.
It's important to trust your instincts regarding your health, and seeking a second opinion or further evaluation is always justified when symptoms worsen. You're not overreacting; your health and comfort are priorities. Please keep monitoring your symptoms closely, and take action as outlined above.
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