Does middle ear infection cause ear discharge?

In a middle ear infection, inflammation and trapped fluid build up behind the eardrum. If pressure creates a small opening in the eardrum, fluid or pus may reach the ear canal. Some people notice a sudden wet feeling, staining on a pillow, or discharge that is yellow, cloudy, or blood-tinged. Pain may ease after drainage, although the infection still needs assessment.

Ear discharge may also come from the outer ear canal, an irritated eardrum, or a foreign object. Colour and smell alone cannot identify the cause.

Arrange a medical assessment, particularly if the discharge is new, persistent, or accompanied by pain, fever, reduced hearing, or dizziness. Keep the ear dry and wipe the outer ear gently. Do not insert cotton buds, fingers, or drops unless a clinician has advised them, because a damaged eardrum changes which treatments are suitable.

Seek urgent care for swelling or redness behind the ear, severe worsening pain, marked dizziness, facial weakness, confusion, or a severe headache. Prompt assessment is also needed after a head injury or when a child appears unusually drowsy or seriously unwell.

Ask whether the eardrum is intact, whether the discharge is from the middle or outer ear, and whether you need an examination of your hearing. Tell the clinician when drainage began, its colour and smell, and whether pain changed when it appeared.