What should I do if there is yellow discharge inside the ear?

Yellow discharge in the ear may result from normal cerumen, water trapped in the external auditory canal, 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 the discharge increases or is accompanied by ear pain or hearing loss, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Normal Cerumen: Cerumen, produced by sebaceous glands in the external ear canal, mixes with dust to form a light yellow, odorless substance that protects the ear canal. Avoid using cotton swabs or ear picks to dig deeply into the ear. If cerumen buildup occurs, seek professional medical assistance for safe removal.

2. Water in the External Ear Canal: Water may enter the ear during bathing or swimming, causing cerumen to absorb moisture, soften, and turn into a yellowish paste, possibly accompanied by a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear. Gently wipe the outer ear canal with a dry cotton swab or tilt the head and hop on one foot to drain the water, helping keep the ear canal dry.

3. External Otitis: Bacterial or fungal infection of the external ear canal causes inflammation, leading to increased yellow, sticky discharge, along with itching and pain in the ear canal. Under a doctor's guidance, patients may use medications such as ofloxacin ear drops, clotrimazole cream, or cephalexin capsules to relieve symptoms.

4. Suppurative Otitis Media: Bacterial infection of the middle ear leads to purulent inflammation, producing yellow pus that may drain from the ear canal, often accompanied by ear pain and fever. Under medical supervision, medications such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium dispersible tablets, hydrogen peroxide solution, or tobramycin ear drops may be used to alleviate discomfort.

5. External Auditory Canal Eczema: Allergies or local irritation can cause eczema in the external ear canal, resulting in yellow exudate and crusting, accompanied by intense itching. As directed by a physician, patients may use calamine lotion, desonide cream, or loratadine tablets to improve symptoms.

Maintain clean and dry ear canals, avoid frequent ear picking, take protective measures during bathing or swimming, stay away from allergens such as pollen and dust mites, follow a light diet avoiding spicy and irritating foods, and take good care of your ear health.