Otitis externa
Ear Discharge Assessment in Nottingham
Ear discharge may feel wet, sticky, smelly, watery or pus-like. It can be caused by infection, inflammation, eczema, trapped debris, a foreign body, chronic ear disease or a perforated eardrum.
Common symptoms and signs
Symptoms can overlap between different ear conditions. A careful clinical assessment helps ensure treatment is guided by your symptoms, clinical history and examination findings.
- Wetness or fluid from the ear
- Unpleasant smell from the ear canal
- Discharge with pain, itching or swelling
- Reduced hearing or blocked sensation
- Recurrent episodes of discharge
Common ear-related causes
Ear discharge may be linked to infection, inflammation, eczema, a perforated eardrum, trapped debris or a foreign body in the ear canal. Examination helps identify the likely source of discharge and guide treatment.
Fungal or bacterial infection
Ear eczema or dermatitis
Perforated eardrum or middle-ear infection
Foreign body or trapped debris
Doctor-led assessment at Nottingham Ear Clinic
A doctor-led examination can help identify whether the discharge is coming from the ear canal, eardrum or middle ear. Ear swabs may be taken where clinically useful to guide treatment.
When to seek urgent medical advice
Most ear symptoms can be assessed in a routine appointment, but some warning symptoms should not wait.
- Sudden hearing loss, especially in one ear
- Severe or rapidly worsening pain
- Facial weakness, confusion or severe headache
- Marked dizziness, collapse or severe balance disturbance
- Swelling, redness or tenderness spreading around the ear
- High temperature or feeling very unwell, particularly if you have diabetes or reduced immune function
If symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening or concerning, seek advice from your GP, NHS 111, an urgent treatment centre or 999 in an emergency.
Related ear care services
Private ENT Consultation
Doctor-led assessment for ear pain, discharge, tinnitus, dizziness and complex ear symptoms.
Microsuction Wax Removal
Safe, precise ear wax removal where wax is present and treatment is clinically appropriate.
Ear Infection Treatment
Assessment and treatment advice for painful, itchy, inflamed or discharging ears.
Private Hearing Care
Ear and hearing health checks with access to full hearing assessments from experienced audiologists.
Tinnitus Management
Assessment and support for ringing, buzzing, humming or whooshing sounds.
Hearing Protection
Custom hearing protection, ear impressions and advice for noise exposure.
Frequently asked questions
Helpful answers about ear discharge and when to book an appointment.
Is ear discharge usually an infection?
Infection is a common cause, but discharge can also occur with inflammation, eczema, trapped debris, foreign bodies or eardrum problems.
Can you take an ear swab?
Yes. If clinically indicated, a swab can help identify bacterial or fungal infection and guide the most appropriate treatment.
Should I put drops in before being assessed?
Avoid using repeated or leftover drops unless advised by a clinician, as the correct treatment depends on the cause and appearance of the ear.
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