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The ear has two functions; as the receptacle of the auditory senses (hearing), and as the organ of balance. Injuries to the ear usually affect the hearing function rather than balance. Children are especially at risk of ear damage by inserting small objects into the ear canal. This can have serious effects on the tympanic membrane or ‘eardrum’. An old, but sensible, saying is that ‘nothing smaller than the elbow should be poked in the ear’.



Ear Obstruction

• if an insect, attempt to float it out with warm water or clean light vegetable oil
• if object immovable, seek medical aid
• do not poke anything into the ear

The tympanic membrane or eardrum is easily damaged. Holes or tears may be caused by swimming and diving beneath the surface, change in altitude (flying), or by vigorous nose-blowing when ‘stuffed up’ with a cold or flu. Minor eardrum injuries usually spontaneously repair themselves over a period of hours.

Ruptured Eardrum

• place cover over affected ear to guard against infection
• seek medical aid
• avoid using eardrops unless directed by a doctor
• avoid swimming or water sports