Which type of reaction may indicate that an eardrum has been ruptured?

An immediate reaction is indicative of a ruptured eardrum because it suggests that the body responds quickly to a sudden traumatic event. When the eardrum is compromised, for example, due to pressure changes or loud noises, the immediate physiological response can include symptoms such as pain, hearing loss, or the sensation of fullness in the ear. These symptoms occur rapidly after the rupture and signal an urgent health concern that may require medical attention.

In contrast, chronic reactions typically develop over time and are not associated with an acute injury like a ruptured eardrum. Moderate and delayed reactions imply a slower or less intense response, which does not align with the immediate onset of symptoms that would follow a rupture. Understanding this distinction helps in identifying the urgency of medical treatment required when dealing with ear injuries.