Ear discharge

What are the Causes of Ear Discharge?

The cause varies from a simple allergy to a tumor in the ear. Some of the causes are as follows:

• Bacterial infections of the outer ear
• Fungal infection
• Allergy
• Tumors of the ear
• Viral infections of the ear drum

When to see a Doctor?

• When the discharge is associated with pain
• When it is greenish or yellow or black colored
• When it is associated with swelling
• When there is decrease in hearing
• When there is discharge of bony particles

What are the Treatment options?

• Medical – Anti inflammatory drugs are the main stay of treatment if an inflammatory condition. An infection requires antibiotics.
• Surgical – Incision and drainage of the abscess has to be done if the pus has collected in a pocket. An extensive surgery is required if there is a deeper infection or a tumor. Key hole surgery is available at selected centers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ear Discharge

Do’s

• Keep the ear dry
• Use ear plugs while swimming and bathing
• Clean the ear with a dry wick

Don’ts

• Don’t use over the counter medications
• Do not scratch the ear
• Don’t poke the ear using sharp objects