Ear drainage, also known asotorrhea, can stem from various conditions, each with distinct causes.
Understanding these causes is crucial for effective treatment and preventing further complications.
What Causes Ear Drainage?
Verywell / Gary Ferster
Ear drainage can happen for many different reasonssome are minor, while others may need medical attention.
Below are some of the most common causes.
Fluid can build up and become infected, leading to pain and pressure in the ear.
This drainage may look cloudy, yellow, or bloody.
Moisture can wash away protective earwax, soften the skin, and let bacteria or fungi grow.
When the eardrum is damaged, fluid from the middle ear can drain out.
This drainage may be clear, yellow, bloody, or have a bad smell.
Other symptoms may include:
Sometimes pain improves after the eardrum bursts, as pressure is relieved.
Small ruptures often heal on their own, but larger ones may need medical care.
Theyre often used in children who get frequentear infectionsor have fluid that doesnt go away on its own.
In most cases, drainage from an ear with tubes means the tubes are working as intended.
Common items found in the ear canal include food, small toys, buttons and beads, or insects.
In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all.
Earwax
Earwaxis the most common discharge in the ear.
Medically known ascerumen, earwax comprises oil, bacteria, dead skin, trapped water, and hair.
It protects the ear from external objects and harmful bacteria.
It is normal to see a small amount of earwax in the outer ear canal.
Sometimes, large amounts of earwax may be present.
Ear dropsthat can dissolve earwax may be used if needed.
This drainage may be clear, bloody, or mixed with pus if theres also an infection.
When this tube doesnt open properly, fluid can build up in the middle ear.
It typically requires medical evaluation and treatment to prevent further complications.
The drainage is usually clear and watery, and may be mistaken for normal ear discharge.
Treatment
The right treatment for ear drainage depends on the underlying cause.
A healthcare provider can determine whats needed based on your symptoms and exam.
A medical evaluation helps ensure the right care and prevent complications.
While it can be alarming to see fluid coming from the ear, most cases aren’t emergencies.
Still, its important to see a healthcare provider to determine the cause and get the right treatment.
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