What causes sudden fluid discharge from the ear?

Watery discharge from the ear may result from softened cerumen in the external auditory canal, water entering during bathing, external otitis, suppurative otitis media, or external auditory canal eczema. Symptoms can be improved through ear canal cleaning, keeping the ear dry, and medical treatment. If discharge is accompanied by pain or hearing loss, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Softened Cerumen in the External Auditory Canal: Cerumen (earwax) inside the ear canal may soften due to contact with water or increased sebum production, leading to a light yellow, sticky fluid discharge without a strong odor. It is recommended to gently wipe the outer ear canal with a clean cotton swab, avoiding insertion deep into the ear. Seek professional medical help if needed for proper cleaning.

2. Water Entry During Bathing: Water may enter the ear canal during bathing or swimming, mixing with small amounts of cerumen and causing discharge, possibly accompanied by a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear. Tilt the head toward the affected side and gently pull the earlobe to facilitate drainage. Use a hairdryer on a low, cool setting held at a distance to dry the ear canal.

3. External Otitis: Inflammation caused by trauma from ear picking or bacterial infection leads to pus-like discharge from the ear canal, often accompanied by redness, swelling, and pain. Under a doctor's guidance, patients may use medications such as ofloxacin ear drops, cefaclor sustained-release capsules, and ibuprofen sustained-release capsules to relieve symptoms.

4. Suppurative Otitis Media: Bacterial infection of the middle ear causes purulent inflammation. When the eardrum perforates, yellow pus drains from the ear, accompanied by severe ear pain and hearing loss. Under medical supervision, medications such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium dispersible tablets, lomefloxacin hydrochloride ear drops, and phenol-glycerin ear drops may be used to alleviate discomfort.

5. External Auditory Canal Eczema: Eczema triggered by allergens or a moist ear canal environment results in a light yellow, serous discharge, accompanied by itching and skin flaking in the ear canal. As directed by a physician, treatments such as calamine lotion, dexamethasone cream, and loratadine tablets may help improve symptoms.

Maintain clean and dry ear canals. Avoid frequent ear picking and exposure to contaminated water. Eat a light diet, avoiding spicy and irritating foods. Maintain regular sleep patterns to strengthen immunity and reduce the occurrence of ear discomfort.