Otorrhea

What is Otorrhea?

Definition: Otorrhea is the medical term for ear drainage. It can be caused by an infection in the outer ear or middle ear, or by a perforation in the eardrum.

What is otorrhea caused by?

Otorrhea can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Outer ear infections: These infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. They often occur after swimming or bathing, when water gets trapped in the ear canal.
  • Middle ear infections: These infections can be caused by bacteria or viruses. They often occur in children, but can also occur in adults.
  • Perforated eardrum: A perforated eardrum is a hole in the eardrum. It can be caused by a blow to the ear, a foreign object in the ear, or a middle ear infection.

What is the difference between otorrhea and otorrhagia?

Difference between otorrhea and otorrhagia: Otorrhea is drainage from the ear, while otorrhagia is bleeding from the ear.

Is otorrhea chronic or acute?

Otorrhea can be either chronic or acute. Chronic otorrhea is drainage that lasts for more than 6 weeks. Acute otorrhea is drainage that lasts for less than 6 weeks.

What is the difference between otorrhea and otitis media?

Otitis media is an infection of the middle ear. It can cause otorrhea, but not all cases of otorrhea are caused by otitis media.

Treatment

The treatment for otorrhea depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, the drainage may stop on its own. In other cases, treatment may be necessary, such as:

  • Antibiotics: If the otorrhea is caused by an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.
  • Ear drops: Ear drops can help to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
  • Surgery: If the eardrum is perforated, surgery may be necessary to repair it.

Prevention

There are a few things that can be done to help prevent otorrhea, such as:

  • Avoid getting water in your ears: When swimming or bathing, wear earplugs or a swim cap to help keep water out of your ears.
  • Clean your ears regularly: Use a soft-tipped cotton swab to clean your ears. Do not put anything smaller than your elbow into your ear canal.
  • See a doctor if you have ear pain or drainage: If you have ear pain or drainage, see a doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment.

Otorrhea can be a sign of a serious underlying condition, so it is important to see an audiologist if you experience it.

 

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