Functions of the eardrum and causes of its rupture: Tips from Dr. Abdulmonem Al-Sheikh

Hearing is one of the greatest gifts God has bestowed upon humankind, and the eardrum a vital role in protecting this delicate sense. In this context, Dr. Abdulmonem Hassan Al-Sheikh, a consultant in otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat surgery), explained to Al-Youm newspaper the crucial importance of the eardrum within the auditory system, emphasizing the need to follow healthy practices to avoid risks that could threaten its integrity.

Functions of the eardrum and how it works

Dr. Al-Sheikh emphasized that the eardrum is not merely a thin membrane, but a vital barrier separating the outer and middle ear. Its primary function is to receive sound waves and convert them into precise mechanical vibrations, which are then efficiently transmitted to the three ossicles of the ear, ensuring clear and balanced hearing. In addition to its auditory role, the eardrum acts as a protective shield, preventing bacteria, dust, and water from entering the inner ear. It also works with the Eustachian tube to equalize air pressure, thus maintaining a stable internal ear environment.

Causes of eardrum rupture and common risks

The consultant warned against a number of practices and factors that may lead to a perforated or ruptured eardrum, most notably:

• Improper cleaning: Using cotton swabs or sharp tools and inserting them deeply into the ear canal, which may cause direct injury to the membrane.
• Loud noise: Exposure to explosions or sudden loud noises (acoustic shock).
• Changes in atmospheric pressure: such as those that occur during takeoff and landing of aircraft or during deep-sea diving (barotrauma).
• Severe infections: where the accumulation of fluids and pus behind the eardrum leads to increased pressure on it and its rupture.

Medical context and the impact of aging

From a medical perspective, experts point out that maintaining ear health involves not only avoiding direct injuries but also understanding the nature of physiological changes. Regarding the effects of aging, Dr. Al-Sheikh explained that the eardrum does not automatically lose its function with age, but its elasticity may decrease slightly, and the efficiency of the Eustachian tube may weaken. However, the most significant impact on hearing in older adults is often due to a decline in the efficiency of auditory nerve cells, rather than the eardrum itself.

The importance of prevention and its impact on quality of life

Maintaining healthy eardrums goes beyond simply being able to hear; it is closely linked to balance and the quality of social and psychological life. Hearing problems can lead to isolation and communication difficulties. Therefore, Dr. Abdulmonem Al-Sheikh emphasized a set of preventative tips:

• Completely refrain from inserting any instruments into the ear for the purpose of cleaning.
• Take the initiative to treat colds, nasal allergies, and sinus infections to prevent the infection from spreading to the middle ear.
• Use medical earplugs when swimming and dry your ears thoroughly afterward.
• Avoid direct exposure to sources of loud noise.
• See a doctor immediately if you experience sudden pain, ringing, or a decrease in hearing level.