What causes yellowing of the eardrum and hearing loss?

In general, yellowing of the eardrum accompanied by hearing loss may be caused by anemia, ear canal eczema, acute otitis media, or other conditions. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Anemia

Severe anemia can lead to hypoxia or oxygen deficiency in various tissues and organs throughout the body, resulting in symptoms across multiple systems. Common manifestations include yellowish discoloration of the eardrum with hearing loss, pale skin and mucous membranes, fatigue, dizziness, and insomnia. Patients with anemia may improve their condition by incorporating certain foods into their daily diet, such as pig blood, black fungus (wood ear mushrooms), black beans, and pork liver. In more severe cases, treatment under medical supervision may include oral iron supplements, vitamin B12, and folic acid preparations.

2. Ear Canal Eczema

Yellowing of the eardrum with hearing loss may also result from eczema. The onset of eczema is closely related to individual physical constitution, particularly exacerbated by poor dietary habits and emotional stress, which can trigger eczema in the inner ear canal. Symptoms include itching in the ear, occasional pain, a moist sensation, and in severe cases, serous fluid discharge from the ear, often accompanied by hearing loss. Treatment for ear canal eczema may involve topical medications. If there is local oozing or erosion, wet compresses with boric acid solution may help relieve symptoms. Patients with severe symptoms should seek timely medical attention.

3. Acute Otitis Media

Patients with acute otitis media commonly experience hearing loss and a sensation of ear blockage, along with tinnitus and ear pain. The eardrum may appear amber or light yellow but remains intact without perforation, and fluid accumulation in the middle ear cavity can be observed. It is recommended that patients seek prompt medical care. Under the guidance of a healthcare professional, treatment may include antibiotics,桉柠蒎 capsules (Eucalyptus-Citrus-Pine extract), and nasal decongestants. Recovery typically occurs within 1–2 weeks.

Besides the above three causes, other possible reasons include tympanic membrane calcification, external otitis, and cholesteatoma of the middle ear. If symptoms of yellowing eardrum and hearing loss are severe, patients should seek timely medical intervention. Appropriate treatment plans must be determined under the guidance of a physician.