To give it its technical name, “tympanic membrane perforation” occurs when a hole or tear forms in your eardrum. 

When that happens, you may experience any of the following:

• Loss of hearing
• Sharp pain in your ear
• Bloody or mucous drainage from your ear
• A ringing sound
• Vertigo and associated nausea or vomiting

It’s important to get a medical consultation if any of these occur to prevent possible injury or infection. 

While you’re waiting for a proper diagnosis, try to keep the ear as dry as possible in order to prevent infection - avoid swimming and be careful when showering.
Don’t apply any medicated drops unless specifically prescribed to treat infection associated with the perforated eardrum.

Yes, in most cases it will heal up by itself.

Pain-killers and a warm, dry compress will help with the pain. You may be prescribed oral antibiotics or medicinal ear drops to prevent (or clear up) infections that might occur. It’d also be best to avoid rigorous physical activity, keep your ear dry (refrain from cleaning it) – and try not to blow your nose any more than necessary.

While complications are unlikely, they are possible – especially if the rupture doesn’t self-heal within three to six months. Prolonged hearing loss, in rare cases, can result depending on the size and location of the tear. There’s also a very slight chance of recurrent middle ear infections if bacteria enters through the ruptured eardrum.