(HealthDay News) -- A ruptured eardrum typically is caused by an ear infection, an injury to the ear, or sudden changes in air pressure.

Here are suggestions to help heal a ruptured eardrum, courtesy of the University of Michigan Health System:

  • Follow all instructions from your doctor, and don't put anything inside your ear unless your doctor says it's OK.
  • Keep water out of your ear when you take a bath or shower.
  • Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
  • Be gentle when blowing your nose until your ear has healed.
  • Don't go swimming or submerge your ear in water until your doctor approves.