Ear Discharge
Understanding Ear Discharge (Otorrhea)
Ear discharge, also called otorrhea, is any fluid that comes out of your ear canal. The colour, consistency, and smell of this fluid can vary, and it often means there’s an underlying health issue. This webpage explains what ear discharge is, what can cause it, and when you should see Dr Fragkiadakis. The following diagram can help you understand better the differences in terminology
used.
What Does the Discharge Look Like?
The type of fluid coming from your ear can give clues about the cause:
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Clear or watery: May be due to allergies or a skin infection.
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Yellow or green: Often a sign of a bacterial infection.
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Bloody: Could happen after an injury or a burst eardrum.
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Foul-smelling: Might suggest a bacterial infection or a long-term ear problem.
Common Causes of Ear Discharge
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Earwax build-up: Can cause muffled hearing and discomfort. If it continues, it may lead to blockage, infection, and itching.
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Outer ear infection (swimmer’s ear): Usually caused by bacteria or fungi. Symptoms include itching, pain, and yellow or green discharge. Typically the pain is reproduced by pulling the ear upwards and backwards.
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Middle ear infection (otitis media): Often follows a cold. Fluid can build up behind the eardrum and may leak out if the eardrum bursts. This can cause sudden pain, followed by relief, hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness.
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Chronic infections: Ongoing or repeated infections can cause persistent discharge. Sometimes, this is due to a growth called cholesteatoma, which can lead to hearing loss and, rarely, more serious problems like dizziness, facial weakness, or even a brain abscess. These need urgent medical attention.
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Other causes: There are other, less common reasons for ear discharge.
How Is Ear Discharge Diagnosed?
Dr Fragkiadakis will:
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Examine your ear and discuss your symptoms and medical history.
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Use a microscope to look inside your ear.
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Remove any wax or debris if needed.
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Sometimes, take a swab to test for bacteria or fungi.
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You may need a hearing test or scans (MRI/CT) in some cases.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause:
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Cleaning: Removal of wax, debris, or foreign objects (called aural toilet). This is done with gentle suction and a microscope. Trying to remove earwax yourself with cotton buds, can make things worse.
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Medication: Antibiotics, ear drops, or antifungal medicine may be prescribed.
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Surgery: In severe cases, such as with a cholesteatoma or a burst eardrum, surgery may be needed.
Prevention Tips
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Don’t put objects in your ear (like cotton buds).
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Dry your ears well after swimming or showering. You can use a hairdryer on a low setting, held at a distance.
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Wear ear protection in noisy places.
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Manage allergies to help prevent ear problems.
When to See Dr Fragkiadakis
Contact Dr Fragkiadakis if:
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The discharge lasts more than a few days.
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You have ear pain, especially if it’s severe and you have diabetes
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The discharge is bloody or smells bad.
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You notice hearing loss or a feeling of fullness in your ear,
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You have vertigo (severe dizziness) with the discharge.
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There’s a history of ear injury or you think something is stuck in your ear.
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You have a fever or signs of infection (swelling, redness).
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You have diabetes or a condition that weakens your immune system.
For further information please use the link below
If you have any further queries call 02087207499 or email contact@entgeorge.com
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