Among the most common complaints of the ear, in addition to disorders of general hearing or painful abnormalities, is pus in the ear. This pus can occur not only in adults of various ages, but also in infants and young children.
What is pus in the ear?
Pus in the ear can occur in conditions such as otitis media or even hearing loss, ear pain can be a first sign. Pus in the ear occurs when there is an infection with bacterial pathogens. It is a natural decomposition product, which is formed by immunizing forces of the human organism. In medical terminology it is also called “pus in the ear“, the pus is formed by a decomposition of certain tissue structures as well as leukocytes (white blood cells) involved in immune defense. The process is also called suppuration or purulent secretion. Pus in the ear can occur in conditions such as otitis media or even hearing loss, and ear pain can be a first sign.
Causes
The causes of pus in the ear are very diverse. Possible conditions associated with pus formation include inflammation of the ear canal, a condition known as otitis externa (outer ear infection), inflammation of the middle ear (otitis media), injuries, and possible foreign bodies in the ear. An inner ear inflammation as well as irritations of the skin due to friction, purulent pimples or even abscesses can also be the cause of pus in the ear. Generally, all inflammatory processes that lead to pus in the ear are caused by bacteria. Fungi and viruses may also be possible pathogens. Furthermore, allergies as well as metabolic diseases can lead to pus in the ear.
Diseases with this symptom
- Mastoiditis
- Tympanic membrane injuries
- Ear canal inflammation
Diagnosis and course
If there is pus in the ear of a patient, this is often accompanied by ear pain, hearing problems, possibly severe itching, as well as so-called ear running (secretion discharge from the ear). Pus in the ear is often a sign of inflammation or infection. Typical symptoms include swelling, redness and also warming of the ears. A specific diagnosis is always important for the course of the disease. Thus, it is necessary to drain the pus from the ear to relieve the discomfort. Pus in the ear is not necessarily visible from the outside, so a targeted examination is of particular importance. The ear, nose and throat specialist will use special instruments to make the diagnosis. In order to be able to examine and examine the ear canal in detail, an ear mirror is used. Subsequently, the cartilage of the ear is also palpated. If there is pain, purulent or bloody deposits, or impaired hearing, this usually indicates pus in the ear. Other clues for pus in the ear are itching as well as severe redness.
Complications
If the pus cannot drain into the nasopharynx, increasing pressure builds up behind the eardrum. If this pressure becomes too strong, perforation, a tearing of the eardrum, can occur. The purulent secretion that leaks out may be mixed with blood and may also have a foul odor. After a purulent middle ear infection, there is a risk of mastoiditis. This is an inflammation of the cavities. The bony mastoid process from the temporal bone is affected. Treatment usually ends with the prescription of antibiotics and almost always surgery. Mastoiditis is among the most common complications of pus in the ear and requires immediate treatment. Purulent otitis media also carries the risk of spreading to the meninges. The risk of meningitis (meningitis) should not be underestimated. Brain abscesses due to pus deposits or paralysis of the facial nerves are also possible. If so-called toxins (poisons) are formed, labyrinthitis (inflammation of the inner ear labyrinth) is possible in the further course. This leads to inner ear hearing loss and ringing in the ears as well as balance disorders and dizziness. The tympanic membrane takes damage and can scar if improperly treated or not treated in case of pus in the ear. Scarring to bony adhesions can form on the ossicles in the middle ear. Permanent hearing impairment is the result.In medical circles, this is referred to as a cholesteatoma.
When should you go to the doctor?
Pus in the ear often indicates a middle ear infection, but it can also have other causes. The secretion pus forms during inflammation. Here, no one should try to use home remedies to treat pus in the ear. Pus in the ear is always a reason to see an ear, nose and throat specialist immediately. In the case of children, of course, the pediatrician is also a suitable contact. Purulent diseases can be dangerous for the body. They are particularly dangerous in regions of the head. Pus in the ear often has to do with inflammatory processes in the middle and inner ear. Abscesses and boils are other triggers of pus in the ear. Foreign bodies in the ear can also lead to ear infections with purulent discharge. Ear infections are usually associated with severe ear pain or headaches. The suffering pressure is enormous, so that affected persons usually do not have to be persuaded for a long time to visit a doctor. However, it can happen that the eardrum ruptures due to a buildup of secretions. Then the pus in the ear can drain and the pain subsides. Some then think that the worst is over and a visit to the doctor is no longer necessary. However, this is a fatal error. There is a simple rule of thumb: If you have pus in your ear, always see a doctor! Pus in the ear always also means a risk of permanent hearing damage.
Treatment and therapy
To treat the pus in the ear, depending on the causes, various options for treatment can be considered. For example, inflammation of the ear canal is often treated by removing the pus from the ear via surgery. In the case of an inflammation of the middle ear, the removal of the pus is much easier, because here the drainage is already possible when a small tube is inserted into the ear. This form of treatment fulfills two functions: The pus can continuously drain out of the ear and by improving the ventilation of the middle ear, the process of healing is promoted. In addition, antibiotics are also administered by the doctor. Anti-inflammatory drugs and ointments with cortisone can also provide relief. If the pus in the ear is in boils that have become lodged due to improper cleaning, surgical removal of pus and boils is usually performed. In most cases, just opening the boil is sufficient in this case, which allows the pus to drain well from the ear. If allergies are the trigger for pus in the ear, the first step is to treat the allergy accordingly. In addition to regular medication, desensitization can also be useful, because a regularly recurring allergy can always cause pus in the ear.
Outlook and prognosis
Pus in the ear is a clear sign of inflammation of the inner ear. Such inflammation should definitely be closely monitored, because in the worst case, blood poisoning can occur. The pus formation should be stopped immediately. Cleanliness is the first priority, so the inner ear must be thoroughly cleaned several times a day. To do this, simply rinse the auricle with lukewarm water. In this way, the formation of dangerous bacteria is prevented and pus formation should decrease. However, if you still notice a clear formation of pus after three to four days, it is imperative to resort to taking antibiotics. This is the only way to prevent further aggravation of the inflammation. If taking the above-mentioned medications does not bring about any improvement, a doctor’s advice should be sought. In such a case, the cause of the inflammation must be determined in order to achieve a lasting improvement. In general, if you notice pus forming in the ear, you must continue to monitor this condition and treat it if necessary. Anti-inflammatory drugs stop the pus formation and promote the healing process immensely.
Prevention
Pus in the ear can usually be avoided if some simple preventive rules are implemented. For example, it is especially important for young children if they do not sit in drafts and wear headgear in both summer and winter. When cleaning the ears, care must be taken to ensure that pus does not enter the ear canal and the inner ear area through injuries or even by pushing back earwax. Gentle cleaning is of particular importance here.If there are problems with cleaning the ears, this can also be done by a doctor. This can prevent the accumulation of pus in the ear. Those who are unsure about ear cleaning should clean only the outer ear if possible. It is important that no foreign objects get into the ear in both young children and adults.
This is what you can do yourself
Pus in the ear usually indicates inflammation of the inner ear. If affected people suffer from such an inflammation, then various measures can be taken. Since it is an inflammation of the inner ear, the ear in question should always be kept clean and pure. Otherwise, there is a risk of significant aggravation of the inflammation. For relief, the ear in question can be dabbed with chamomile. Chamomile contains anti-inflammatory substances that can cause rapid improvement of the inflammation. If pus formation continues to occur after three to four days, sufferers should see a doctor immediately and address the use of antibiotics. Antibiotics contain the inflammation and prevent further pus formation. As a general rule, if pus oozes from the ear, this inflammation should be monitored very closely. Always keep the affected area clean and rinse the ear with clean water several times a day. This keeps the inflamed area clean and inhibits the further development of pus.
