Causes and Treatments of Ear Drainage

Posted on by Advanced ENT & Allergy

Ear drainage refers to the symptom of fluid or discharge coming from the ear canal. While it’s natural to feel concerned over the symptom, ear drainage is not usually serious. Let’s take a look at a few common causes of ear drainage and what you can do to treat and prevent them.

Common Causes of Ear Drainage

There are several reasons why you might experience drainage from your ear. Some common causes include:

  • Ear infection. Ear infections, often a result of dysfunction in the Eustachian tube, the tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, can cause fluid buildup behind the eardrum. When this fluid becomes infected, it may rupture the eardrum, leading to drainage.
  • Swimmer’s ear. Swimmer’s ear occurs when the ear retains excess water or moisture, leading to bacteria growth and infection. Mild cases of swimmer’s ear may result in small amounts of ear drainage, while more severe cases may lead to excessive fluid.
  • Injury or trauma. Any injury to the ear, such as a blow to the side of the head or a foreign object, like a cotton swab, entering the ear canal can rupture the eardrum, causing drainage.

Treatment Options

Once your ENT specialist has determined the cause of your ear drainage, they may prescribe one of the following treatments:

  • Antibiotics. If the cause is an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to clear up the underlying issue.
  • Ear drops. For conditions resulting in inflammation, like swimmer’s ear or an ear infection, medicated ear drops can help reduce swelling and pain.
  • Surgery or patch. In cases where your eardrum is ruptured, your ENT specialist will likely place a patch over the tear or insert a surgical graft to help your eardrum heal.

Prevention and Self-Care

There are a few self-care methods and preventive measures individuals can take to manage and avoid ear drainage issues:

  • Practice good ear hygiene. Maintaining proper hygiene by cleaning the ears gently and only on the outer parts can reduce the risk of infections. Always consult your ENT specialist for a professional earwax removal or cleaning to avoid damage from at-home cleaning methods.
  • Avoiding excessive water exposure. Keeping the ears dry is crucial, as excessive water exposure can lead to infections. Avoid swimming in high-bacteria environments, and always dry your ears thoroughly after trips to the Crystal Lake Pool.

It is always best to seek professional help from an ENT specialist when experiencing ear drainage or pain. Contact Advanced ENT & Allergy today to make an appointment with one of our trusted specialists.