What should I do if my ear becomes infected and discharges pus after being scratched?

　　If the ear becomes infected and discharges pus after being scratched, improvement can be achieved through local disinfection, medication, and maintaining local hygiene.

　　1. Local Disinfection

　　In cases where scratching has caused a break in the skin and subsequent purulent discharge, iodophor or alcohol-soaked cotton balls may first be used to repeatedly wipe the affected area to ensure thorough local disinfection and prevent infection.

　　2. Medication

　　Subsequently, under a physician’s guidance, topical anti-inflammatory and anti-edema ointments—such as erythromycin ointment or mupirocin ointment—may be applied to the affected site to alleviate symptoms. To prevent secondary infection of the wound, oral antibiotics may also be prescribed by a physician; commonly used options include roxithromycin dispersible tablets and erythromycin capsules.

　　3. Maintaining Local Hygiene

　　During treatment, it is essential to keep the ear clean and dry. When washing the face or hair, sterile cotton balls may be gently placed over the affected area, or an ear cover may be worn to prevent moisture from contacting the wound and worsening the infection.

　　During illness, dietary choices should emphasize light, non-irritating foods. Spicy, stimulating, or “heat-inducing” foods should be avoided, as they may impede recovery.