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The ear is a complex organ that controls hearing and balance. It is made up of the outer ear, ear canal, eardrum, middle ear and inner ear.
The outer ear is covered with a thin skin called cartilage. A cut (laceration) in the cartilage can cause severe swelling and damage to the eardrum or other structures.
A severe laceration can require stitches to close the wound, which also reattaches torn cartilage. The doctor may clean and bandage the laceration and apply antibiotics to prevent infection.
Trauma or abrasions that tear the eardrum (tympanic membrane perforation), dislocate the tiny bones in the middle ear (ossicular dislocation) and damage the inner ear (acoustic trauma) are common types of ear injuries. They can be very painful and often require immediate emergency surgery.
Blows to the ear or head from falls, sports injuries and car accidents can also cause hearing loss. These injuries can also cause ringing in the ears, dizziness and pain.
Bite wounds of the ear are especially risky. The cartilage can break away and die, leading to infection and potentially a loss of hearing.
If the bite has gone through to the middle ear, treatment may include a tube put into the middle ear to drain fluid. The doctor may also prescribe antibiotics, and if the infection is very serious, cosmetic surgery to repair the damaged cartilage.
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Ear Injuries Symptoms
Acute otitis media, the most common ear injury, causes inflammation of the middle ear and can result in temporary hearing loss. This condition can also be caused by an infection in the ear canal, a buildup of fluid behind the eardrum, or even a ruptured eardrum.
Otitis media can also result from prolonged exposure to loud noise. Workers who work in jobs that expose them to high levels of noise (such as a farm or factory) are at higher risk of developing ear damage. Listening to loud music, going to concerts or using headphones can also cause long-term hearing damage.
Other common ear injuries that can lead to permanent hearing loss involve repetitive motions and heavy lifting. Having frequent headaches or neck stiffness can also cause ear injuries.
Heredity
Genetics can play a role in your risk of ear problems, particularly if you are around loud noise for a long time, such as lawn mowers, power tools or farm equipment. You can also get ear infections, a form of hearing loss, from being exposed to loud sounds in sports, for example.
Recreational Noises
Exposure to loud or explosive noise is another major cause of ear injuries. These can be a result of many different factors, including recreational activities such as snowmobiling, motorcycling and listening to music.
You can help prevent ear damage by avoiding activities that are hazardous to your hearing, such as playing baseball or other contact sports, working near machinery or loud music. You can also use protective earplugs or earmuffs to help protect your ears when there is likely to be noise.
