Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for ear-related problems.
What is Otorrhea?
Otorrhea refers to any discharge coming from the ear canal. The discharge may be clear, pus-like, bloody, or foul-smelling, depending on the underlying cause. Otorrhea is not a disease itself but a clinical sign indicating an ear condition that requires medical evaluation.
Types of Otorrhea
- Serous otorrhea: Clear or watery discharge
- Purulent otorrhea: Thick, yellow or green pus
- Bloody otorrhea: Blood-stained discharge
- Mucoid otorrhea: Thick mucus-like fluid
Common Causes of Otorrhea
- Otitis media (middle ear infection)
- Otitis externa (swimmer’s ear)
- Perforated eardrum
- Cholesteatoma
- Ear trauma or foreign body
- Fungal ear infection (otomycosis)
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak (rare but serious)
Symptoms Associated with Otorrhea
- Ear pain or discomfort
- Hearing loss
- Ear fullness or pressure
- Itching inside the ear
- Fever (in infectious causes)
- Dizziness or vertigo
Diagnosis of Otorrhea
Diagnosis involves a detailed ear examination using an otoscope. Depending on severity, doctors may recommend:
- Ear swab culture
- Audiometry (hearing test)
- CT or MRI scan (if complications suspected)
- Beta-2 transferrin test (for CSF leak)
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the underlying cause:
- Antibiotic ear drops or oral antibiotics
- Antifungal medications
- Ear cleaning (aural toileting)
- Surgical repair for eardrum perforation
- Emergency care for CSF leaks
Complications if Left Untreated
- Chronic ear infection
- Permanent hearing loss
- Mastoiditis
- Brain abscess (rare)
Prevention Tips
- Keep ears dry
- Avoid inserting objects into the ear
- Treat upper respiratory infections early
- Use ear protection while swimming
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is otorrhea serious?
Otorrhea can be mild or serious depending on its cause. Persistent or foul-smelling discharge should always be evaluated by a doctor.
Can otorrhea heal on its own?
Mild cases may resolve, but untreated infections can lead to complications.
Is ear discharge contagious?
Otorrhea itself is not contagious, but the infection causing it may spread through close contact.
When should I see a doctor?
If ear discharge lasts more than 2–3 days, causes pain, or affects hearing, seek medical care immediately.