Pus from ear is usually associated with bacterial buildup. If you notice pus or other irritation coming from your ears, consult your doctor to prevent the worsening of symptoms. Ear pain and infections are common and can cause severe discomfort. While pain is sometimes the only symptom, an ear infection or more severe condition may occur with pus or another drainage. Pus is a white-yellow, yellow, or brownish-yellow protein-rich fluid called alcohol puree that accumulates at the site of infection. It consists of dead, white blood cells that react to infections in the body’s immune system.
When buildup occurs on or around the surface of the skin, it is called pustule or pimple. The accumulation of pus in an attached tissue space is called an abscess. The following are some of the possible causes of drainage or pus from ear.
Fast facts about pus
Following are some facts about pus from ear:
- Pus is a natural result of the body fighting infection.
- The pus may be yellow, green, or brown and in some cases may cause bad odor.
- If pus appears after surgery, contact a doctor immediately.
- The small buildup of pus can be self-managed at home.
- The larger or less accessible buildup of pus may require surgical intervention and application of drainage channels.
Causes of pus from ear
An ear infection is caused by bacteria or viruses in the middle ear. This infection often results in another disease: a cold, flu, or allergies that cause congestion and inflammation of the nasal passages, throat, and Eustachian tubes.
Ear infection

Middle ear infections – also called acute otitis media – are common, especially in children. They are often caused by a bacterial or viral infection affecting the middle part of the ear. Common symptoms of an ear infection include:
Pain
Pus or drainage
Hearing difficulty
Loss of balance
Fever
If the middle ear infection creates too much pressure, the eardrum may open, causing bleeding and drainage. Minor ear infections can clear up on their own, but more severe cases require antibiotics and pain medication. If the condition occurs repeatedly, your doctor may recommend a tympanostomy tube (ear tube).
Foreign object
Another cause of pus from ear is that anything that can get stuck in your ear can cause pain, drainage, and damage to the body. This is especially a problem for young children. Common objects implicated in the ear canal include:
- Small toy pieces
- Pearl
- Food
- Bugs
- Cotton lint
In some cases, these items can be removed once at home, as they take into account – but only when they are easily visible near the outer opening of the ear. If they are further trapped in the ear canal, seek immediate medical attention. Trying to get these foreign goods out on their own can cause more harm.
Skin cyst
A cholesteatoma is an abnormal, non-threatening growth that can develop in the middle part of the ear behind your ear. They often develop as ulcers that can grow in size over time.
If a cholesteatoma increases in size, it can destroy bones in your middle ear and result in hearing loss, paralysis of the facial muscles, and dizziness. Other symptoms you may experience with this abnormal skin growth include:
- Aches or pains
- Foul drainage from the ear
- Ear pressure
Home Remedies for Ear Infections
Some of the home remedies are:
Essential Oils for Ear Infection
Things that required:
- 2-3 drops lavender essential oil
- 1-2 drops lemon essential oil
- 1/2 teaspoon coconut oil
- A small cotton ball
Sweet Oil for Ears
Things that required:
- A few drops of sweet oil
- A dropper
- A cotton ball
- You can use extra virgin olive oil if you do not have sweet oil.
Garlic Oil
Things that required:
- 2-3 drops of garlic oil
- A dropper
Hydrogen Peroxide for Ear Infection
Things that required:
- Hydrogen peroxide – 3%
- Hot water
- A dropper
Tea Tree Oil for Ear Infection
Things that required:
- 3-4 drops tea tree oil
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- A dropper
- A cotton swab
Coconut Oil for Ear Infection
Things that required:
- Coconut oil
- A dropper
- A cotton ball
Apple Cider Vinegar for Ear Infection
Things that required:
- 1 part apple cider vinegar
- 1 part water
- A cotton ball
Rubbing Alcohol for Ear Infection
Things that required:
- Rubbing alcohol
- A cotton ball
Caution
If you feel a burning sensation after putting in the alcohol then consult a doctor.
Salt Sock for Ear Infection
Things that required:
- 1/2 cup sea salt
- A clean sock
Oil of Oregano for Ear Infection
Things that required:
A few drops of oregano oil
Caution
Do not use this remedy if you are currently taking blood-thinning medication also never put oregano oil into the ear.
Onion Juice for Ear Infection
Things that required:
A small onion
Garlic and Olive Oil for Ear Infection
Things that required:
- 2-3 cloves fresh crushed garlic
- 1/2 cup olive oil
Mullein Oil for Ear Infections
Things that required:
- 2-3 drops mullein oil
- A dropper
Castor Oil for Ear Infection
Things that required:
- A few drops of castor oil
- A cotton plug
- A cotton ball
HP Thoughts: Understand how fluid discharges from the ear occur and learn their remedies — Fluid Draining From Ear.