Ear Discharge (Otorrhea)
This page will help answer your questions.
What Is Ear Discharge?
Ear discharge refers to the fluid that comes out of the ear. This may include earwax, which can be soft or hard and vary in color from light to dark. It can sometimes have a foul odor. Ear discharge is a symptom that may indicate an underlying health problem.
What Are the Causes of Ear Discharge?
- Common causes of eardischarge include the following:
- Middle ear infections (acute and chronic)
- Outer ear infections
- A ruptured eardrum.
A foreign object in the ear
- Less common causes include:
- Malignant (necrotizing) otitis externa
- Abnormal skin growth behind the eardrum (cholesteatoma)
- Skull base fracture
Ear canal cancer
How to Manage Ear Discharge? Tips to Help You Manage Ear Discharge
In most cases, ear discharge is caused by infections, and treatment is straightforward. The doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics, either orally or as ear drops, to eliminate the infection.
If ear discharge occurs as a result of a recent head injury or the presence of a tumor, you will be referred to a specialist for immediate evaluation and appropriate treatment .
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should see a doctor if you experience abnormal ear discharge.
- It is also important to seek medical attention promptly if the discharge is accompanied by any of the following.
- symptoms:
- Elevated temperature
- Redness around the ear or neck
Loss of balance
Weakness in the limbs
Ear discharge may be a symptom of either a benign or serious health condition and, therefore, requires timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ear discharge contagious?
Ear discharge itself is not contagious, nor are most ear infections. However, if you have a cold associated with an ear infection, the cold virus may spread to others through coughing or sneezing.
