A persistent feeling of wetness inside the ear, medically known as otorrhea, indicates that fluid is draining from the ear canal or from the middle ear space behind the eardrum. While some moisture is a normal function of the ear’s protective mechanisms, continuous or unusual wetness often signals an underlying issue such as an infection or inflammation. Understanding the source and nature of this fluid is the first step toward addressing the problem.
Identifying Normal Ear Moisture Versus Discharge
The ear canal naturally produces cerumen, or earwax, which is a mix of secretions from sebaceous and ceruminous glands. This waxy substance is slightly acidic and water-repellent, serving a protective function that traps dust and foreign particles. Normal cerumen is usually thick, ranging in color from yellowish to dark brown, and does not typically present as a persistent, clear wetness draining from the ear.
Temporary wetness can occur from trapped water after swimming or showering, which is usually clear and resolves quickly. Abnormal discharge, or otorrhea, requires more attention, especially if it is cloudy, thick, pus-like, or bloody. If discharge is accompanied by a foul odor, pain, itching, or hearing changes, it indicates a deeper issue. Abnormal discharge is the body’s response to an infection or injury, which has compromised the ear’s natural barriers.
Infections of the Outer Ear Canal (Swimmer’s Ear)
One of the most common causes of wetness originating from the external auditory canal is Otitis Externa, frequently called Swimmer’s Ear. This condition is an infection or inflammation of the outer ear canal skin, often triggered by excessive moisture or physical trauma. When water remains in the ear for extended periods, it can break down the protective skin barrier, creating an ideal environment for bacteria or fungi to proliferate.
Trauma to the ear canal, such as that caused by inserting cotton swabs, fingernails, or other foreign objects, can also disrupt the skin and lead to this infection. The discharge associated with Otitis Externa can be thin and watery, or it may become thick and pus-like, sometimes presenting as greenish-yellow fluid.
A hallmark symptom distinguishing this condition is the severe pain experienced when the outer ear or earlobe is gently pulled or pressed. This pain is due to the swelling of the inflamed canal tissue. The inflammation can be so intense that it narrows the canal, leading to a feeling of fullness and temporary hearing loss.
Fluid Drainage Originating from the Middle Ear
A different and often more serious cause of ear wetness involves fluid draining from the middle ear space, located behind the eardrum. This occurs only if the eardrum (tympanic membrane) has a perforation or tear, allowing fluid from the middle ear cavity to escape into the outer ear canal. The most frequent reason for this perforation is a severe Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media).
When the pressure from the fluid becomes too high, the eardrum ruptures, and the built-up fluid drains out, often leading to immediate relief of the intense pain that preceded it. The discharge from a middle ear infection is typically thicker, often described as pus-like, and may contain blood.
Trauma, such as a direct blow, a sudden extreme pressure change, or an object inserted too deeply, can also cause a tear in the eardrum. This trauma results in a bloody or clear fluid discharge.
Treatment and When to Consult a Doctor
Seeking professional medical advice is necessary if the ear wetness is persistent, accompanied by pain, fever, hearing loss, or dizziness. Immediate attention is warranted if the discharge is bloody, has a foul odor, or if it follows a head injury. A doctor can perform an examination using an otoscope to determine the source of the fluid and check the integrity of the eardrum for proper treatment.
For infection-related discharge, treatment often involves prescription ear drops containing antibiotics or antifungals. If a perforated eardrum is suspected, it is imperative to avoid putting any liquid, including water or unapproved drops, into the ear. Preventative steps include avoiding the insertion of foreign objects like cotton swabs and ensuring the ears are dried thoroughly after water exposure.