Ear Discharge: Types, Causes and Symptoms

Ear discharge in the form of fluid, blood and other secretions is called otorrhea or just ear discharge. In the case of ear discharge, it gets exited through the ear. It is different from ear wax and has to be attended to promptly. If there are constant secretions such as blood or fluid discharge, this condition must not be ignored. There can also be discharge of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) which may be sticky in nature.

Types of Ear Discharge

Types of discharge can be varied and can differ in viscosity, color and odor. Discharge can take the form of serous discharge, bloody discharge or clear discharge.

Serous, purulent or bloody discharge can occur owing to infection. In this case the color of the discharge may be yellow or brown. There may also be foul smelling discharge which can also result from some form of infection. In the case of persistent infections, you may experience a blood stained discharge which can be sticky and thick. Ear secretion may be white in color in the case of severe infections. A rupture of the blood vessels in the middle or inner ear can cause bloody discharge. This can also lead to bleeding within the cranial cavity. Tissue swelling is the main cause for clear discharge which is otherwise called as watery ear discharge.

Signs and Symptoms associated with Ear Discharge

In most cases there may be no symptoms associated with ear secretions. In some cases symptoms such as itchy ear, vertigo, swollen ear, ear pain, hearing loss etc may be experienced by people suffering from this problem.

Causes of Ear Discharge

An infection of the middle or outer ear can be the most common cause of ear discharge. However, otorrhea can also result from a severe case of head trauma. Ear discharge can also result from a condition called Acute otitis media, in which case the presence of a tympanic membrane can result in ear discharge. The purulent discharge can cause acute pain and swelling sometimes. The pain may be accompanied by other signs such as red eyes, sore throat, jaw pain, diminished hearing, fever and many other conditions which may precede the discharge.

Children suffering from this condition also experience irritability, loss of appetite and restlessness. Through appropriate long term treatment and natural remedial measures, the problem can be brought under control quickly and safely.