What causes a foul smell from the ear?
Mar 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
If there is a foul odor coming from the ear, and it is caused by excessive earwax (cerumen) secretion combined with water entering the ear leading to inflammation, it is recommended to have a healthcare professional remove the earwax. If the cause is increased discharge due to secretory otitis media, medications such as amoxicillin capsules or levofloxacin hydrochloride tablets may be used as directed by a physician. If the condition is due to fungal external otitis (otomycosis), treatment may include topical antifungal agents such as compound miconazole nitrate ointment or clotrimazole ointment.
A foul odor from the ear may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions such as secretory otitis media, fungal external otitis, and others.
I. Physiological Factors
If excessive cerumen (earwax) has accumulated in the ear without timely cleaning, or if water enters the ear during face or hair washing leading to inflammation, it is recommended to have a healthcare professional remove the cerumen.
II. Pathological Factors
1. Secretory Otitis Media
In cases of secretory otitis media, inflammation irritates the ear canal mucosa, causing increased secretion. The secretions are often thick and accumulate in large amounts. Treatment may include medications prescribed by a doctor, such as Amoxicillin Capsules, Levofloxacin Hydrochloride Tablets, or Cefuzonam Sodium for Injection, to help resolve the inflammation.
2. Fungal External Otitis
If the condition is fungal external otitis, the external auditory canal and eardrum become infected with fungi, producing purulent discharge especially after water exposure. Antifungal medications such as Compound Miconazole Nitrate Ointment, Clotrimazole Ointment, or Nystatin Tablets may be used as directed by a physician to eliminate the causative pathogens.
In addition, conditions such as external auditory canal cholesteatoma could also be responsible. It is advisable to seek prompt medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
