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EAR DISCHARGE.

  • Ear discharge is a prevalent issue that can impact individuals across all age ranges, with a higher incidence among children. The underlying cause of ear discharge is typically inflammation of the outer and middle ear.
  • According to a study, the global prevalence of acute middle ear infections, known as otitis media, is 10.85%. Within this percentage, approximately 51% of cases occur in children under the age of five.
  • Ear discharge, also known as otorrhea, is a symptom of various underlying ear conditions, which can be caused by infections, injuries, or other factors. The specific cause of ear discharge often determines the treatment and management.

    • It's important to note that the color and consistency of the ear discharge, as well as associated symptoms like pain, fever, hearing loss, and dizziness, can provide clues about the underlying condition.

    1.Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection): Inflammation or infection of the middle ear can lead to a buildup of pus or fluid, resulting in ear discharge. This condition is common in children and adults.

    2.Swimmer's Ear (Otitis Externa): Infection or inflammation of the outer ear canal, typically caused by exposure to water, moisture, or bacteria. This can lead to ear pain, itching, and discharge.

    3.Earwax Impaction: A blockage of earwax (cerumen) in the ear canal can trap bacteria or moisture, leading to infection and discharge. This condition is often painful.

    4.Cholesteatoma: A noncancerous but destructive growth in the middle ear that can lead to ear discharge, hearing loss, and other complications.

    Symptoms of Impacted Earwax.

  • Discharge of blood, ear wax, pus or fluid from the ear.

    • Precautions & Treatments

  • Do not use earbuds, safety pins or hairpins at all to clean ears if suffering from Otitis externa (Swimmer’s ear)
  • Avoid bathing in ponds or lakes to ensure that water does not enter the ears if suffering from Otomycosis (Fungal infection)
  • Best option for relief from Chronic Otitis Media (COM) is through surgical procedures like myringoplasty (Eardrum repair surgery) and a cortical mastoidectomy (Removal of Mastoid air cells without affecting the middle ear). For long lasting relief from issues that might cause a hole in the ear, sometimes nasal surgery (adenotonsillectomy) is recommended.
  • Surgery as an emergency procedure has to be undertaken if diagnosed with the condition Cholestetoma (unsafe chronic otitis media), as it causes ear bones to decay and cause face paralysis. Damage to ear bones can be rectified by a procedure called ossiculoplasty.