What causes a foul odor at the edge of the ear?

Generally, an unpleasant odor at the edge of the ear may be caused by inadequate cleaning, excessive sweating, external otitis, infected sebaceous cysts, or infected preauricular sinus. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Inadequate cleaning: Long-term accumulation of earwax and skin flakes in the folds around the ear edge can lead to bacterial growth and decomposition, resulting in odor. Clean the ear edges daily with a soft cloth dampened with warm water, focusing on the folds, and avoid using sharp objects for scraping.

2. Excessive sweating: During summer or after exercise, increased sweat secretion from glands around the ear, when mixed with sebum and dust, can produce an acidic, foul smell if not cleaned promptly. Wipe the area around the ears promptly after exercise, wear breathable and sweat-absorbing clothing, and keep the ear area dry.

3. External otitis: Bacterial infection causing inflammation of the outer ear canal leads to increased secretions with an unpleasant odor, which may沾 onto the ear edge and cause smell. Follow medical advice to use ofloxacin ear drops, cefradine capsules, or hydrogen peroxide solution, and maintain dryness of the ear canal.

4. Infected sebaceous cyst: Blockage of sebaceous gland ducts at the ear edge forms a cyst, which may become infected, rupture, and discharge pus with a foul odor. Under medical guidance, take amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets, cefuroxime axetil tablets, or metronidazole tablets. After controlling the infection, surgical removal of the sebaceous cyst may be required.

5. Infected preauricular sinus: A congenital preauricular sinus may become blocked and infected, discharging purulent secretions from the opening, leading to odor at the ear edge. Use clindamycin capsules, levofloxacin tablets, or mupirocin ointment as directed by a physician. For recurrent infections, surgical excision of the preauricular sinus is recommended.

In daily life, develop the habit of regularly cleaning the ear edges; clean sweat promptly after exercise; avoid frequently squeezing the skin around the ears; seek medical attention immediately if redness, swelling, or pus discharge occurs—do not attempt self-treatment, which may worsen the infection.