Ear Drainage

Ear discharge is a general term that refers to any fluid and substance that comes out of the ear. It is referred to medically as otorrhea.

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What types of ear drainage can you have?

Types of ear drainage include blood, pus, fluid, and earwax, which is the most common.

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What causes ear drainage?

Causes of ear drainage include a ruptured eardrum, head injury, ear infection, foreign object, cholesteatoma, or mastoiditis.

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When should I be worried about my ear drainage?

While earwax coming from the ear is not a cause for concern, ear drainage can sometimes be caused by an irritation or infection.

 

A ruptured eardrum can cause a white, slightly bloody, or yellow discharge from the ear. Dry crusty material on a child’s pillow may indicate a ruptured eardrum, which needs immediate medical attention.

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