There is a damp smell in the ear.
Jun 05, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, a damp odor in the ear may be caused by factors such as oily ears, external otitis, suppurative otitis media, or other conditions including external auditory canal cholesteatoma, chronic eczema of the ear canal, and ear inflammation. Specific diagnosis requires medical evaluation at a hospital, followed by treatment according to medical advice. Prompt medical attention is recommended to avoid delaying the condition.
In general, a damp odor in the ear may be caused by factors such as oily earwax, external otitis, or suppurative otitis media. Patients should seek symptomatic treatment under medical guidance. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Oily Ear
This refers to oily cerumen. It is recommended that patients regularly visit a hospital for external auditory canal cleaning to prevent cerumen buildup from blocking the ear canal and affecting hearing, which may also cause a damp odor. In daily life, avoid consuming greasy foods and maintain a light diet.
2. External Otitis
If the ear feels moist and itchy, external otitis is likely. Symptoms of external otitis include itching in the ear, pus discharge, and in severe cases, ear pain, a sensation of blockage, tinnitus, and hearing loss. At this time, treatment under medical supervision may include ear drops such as levofloxacin hydrochloride otic solution or ciprofloxacin otic solution.
3. Suppurative Otitis Media
Persistent moisture, watery discharge, or even pus drainage from the ear are typically signs of chronic suppurative otitis media. In such cases, medications such as amoxicillin capsules or cefuroxime axetil granules may be prescribed under medical supervision.
Besides these three common causes, other possible factors include chronic eczema of the ear canal, ear inflammation, or external auditory canal cholesteatoma. A thorough evaluation at a hospital is necessary to determine the exact cause, and treatment should be carried out according to medical advice. Prompt medical attention is essential to avoid delaying proper diagnosis and treatment.
