Ohrenausfluss

Ohrenausfluss, also known as otorrhea, refers to the discharge of fluid from the ear canal. This discharge can vary in appearance, consistency, and smell, and its characteristics often provide clues to the underlying cause. The fluid may be clear, cloudy, bloody, or purulent (pus-like). The presence of odor can also be a significant symptom.

Several conditions can lead to ohrenausfluss. A common cause is otitis externa, an infection of the outer ear canal, often referred to as swimmer's ear. This can result in a watery or thick, pus-like discharge, often accompanied by itching and pain. Another frequent cause is otitis media, an infection of the middle ear. If the eardrum perforates due to the infection, fluid and pus can drain through the ear canal. This discharge might be thick and foul-smelling.

Trauma to the ear, such as a direct blow or insertion of foreign objects, can also cause bleeding and subsequent discharge. Earwax impaction, while usually not causing discharge, can sometimes lead to a watery or oily seepage if the wax becomes infected or irritated. More serious causes include cholesteatoma, a non-cancerous skin growth in the middle ear, which can produce a foul-smelling discharge. In rare cases, tumors or meningitis can also manifest with ear discharge.

Diagnosis of ohrenausfluss typically involves a medical history, physical examination of the ear using an otoscope, and sometimes cultures of the discharge to identify specific bacteria or fungi. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include antibiotic or antifungal ear drops, oral medications, cleaning of the ear canal, or surgical intervention for more complex conditions. Persistent or significant ear discharge should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.