One week ago, I caught a mild cold that gradually worsened into an ear infection. Early on Christmas Eve, it culminated in my tympanic membrane rupturing—commonly known as a ruptured eardrum. While this small tear will heal with time, I’m currently experiencing constant ringing (tinnitus) and reduced hearing in my one ear as the membrane repairs itself.
As an anatomist, I immediately recognized what had happened when I awoke to a loud crackling sound in my ear, along with a sudden release of pressure deep within. Surprisingly, it was relatively painless and even felt somewhat relieving. Fortunately, I was able to visit my doctor the same day to confirm the diagnosis and discuss the severity and treatment plan.
Most importantly, here’s what I learned NOT to do:*
- DON’T blow your nose forcefully.
- DON’T use Q-tips.
- DON’T let debris or water enter your ear.
The process of healing will take weeks to months, but I’m comforted by the thought that I should regain my hearing with little to no lasting issues. Over the past week, I have found myself thinking of how this situation might affect our upcoming trip to the Texas-Mexico border. Initially, my focus was on myself—planning how to best keep my ear dry and clean while managing temporary hearing loss.
But my thoughts soon shifted outward. I began considering on how a similar experience might impact someone else in vastly different circumstances. For instance, what if this happened to someone traveling on foot through rural parts of Texas, with limited access to clean water and no chance of receiving medical care? Would their ear become infected? Would they have antibiotics among their most precious belongings? Would they endure pain without relief? And how might hearing loss hinder their ability to handle such a journey?
These questions have made me think more deeply about the challenges others face in conditions far more difficult than my own.
In my teaching, I emphasize the importance of empathy, particularly through the shared experiences in the anatomy lab, where graduate students dissect individuals who have donated their bodies for medical education. Empathy—putting oneself in another’s shoes—helps students understand the impact of their words and actions beyond the classroom and reflect on how they can affect others throughout their lives.
The Beyond Borders project similarly fosters self-awareness. While its primary goals are to assist in searching for and identifying those who have gone missing while attempting to cross into the United States, it also offers personal growth opportunities for volunteers involved in the humanitarian effort. Faculty and students often return from the field with transformed perspectives.
Personally, I anticipate this experience will be humbling and somber at times as I try to keep my head above water—both figuratively and literally. And more importantly, I will aim to shift my focus from myself to others, using my personal setbacks to gain a broader perspective.
* This information is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as verified medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional regarding any health concerns you may have.
~AE