Blood in earwax is not always a severe symptom, but you need to be careful about it. Due to accumulation, normal earwax typically has a yellowish, tan, brown, or even sometimes black color. However, if you notice red earwax, it is because of the blood.  

This brief guide will share all the potential causes of bloody earwax. Moreover, we will share the home remedies and treatments to help you eliminate this situation. Stay with us till then to learn everything about this problem and keep your ears safe. 

Causes Of Blood In Earwax

There can be several causes of blood in earwax and ear pain. It could be due to both minor and severe injuries. The common causes include;  

Ear Canal Injury

Ear canal injury is the most common cause of blood in earwax. It could happen due to inserting things in your ear like cotton swabs, etc. Food particles or small insects could also cause ear canal injury.   

Severe Ear Infection

The next potential cause is severe ear infections. It can cause inflammation and redness in the eardrums. You may also note discharge and pain in severe cases as well. If you notice any of these symptoms, visit a doctor as soon as possible.  

Ruptured Eardrum

A ruptured eardrum is one of the most severe ear injuries. It could also cause blood in earwax. It happens when the membrane in the ear is torn. 

Trauma

Sudden trauma to the eardrum could cause this situation as well. This trauma could be due to several reasons like accidents, falls and hits to the head. You should get medical help as soon as possible in this situation.  

Cholesteatoma

Cholesteatoma is an abnormal growth of skin cells in your middle ear. It can also cause infection and damage the surrounding area of the ear. You may notice other symptoms besides bloody earwax, like fluid discharge and hearing loss. 

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Ear Cancer

Ear cancer is a severe cause of blood in earwax. Although it is rare, it is possible. The tumor can affect your inner ear and cause this symptom. You may also not have numbness and hearing problems with it.   

Lifestyle

The last potential cause of this situation is lifestyle choices. Activities like swimming, excessive ear cleaning etc, could also result in blood in earwax.

Home Remedies For Blood In Earwax

If it has happened for the first time and there are no severe symptoms, try these home remedies first. These are safe and very helpful for minor ear issues. These include;

  • If you notice minor signs of blood, you should simply wait and watch. The eardrum may heal on your own.  
  • The second remedy is gently giving a warm compress to the outside of your ear.
  • The third remedy is essential oils. Warm a few drops of olive or mineral oil and place them in the ear to soften earwax and reduce irritation. Be careful not to insert anything into the ear.
  • Avoid getting water in your ear to prevent infection.
  • Strictly avoid using cotton swabs or inserting objects into the ear canal. It can further increase the irritation or injury.
  • Avoid challenging physical activities for some days.
  • Take some rest, stay hydrated, and eat healthy to keep your immune system strong. It will speed up your recovery.
  • Try over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. 

When To See A Doctor? 

Carefully monitor the symptoms if you notice blood in earwax. Try the home remedies first to treat this condition. If none of these are working or you have noticed other severe symptoms alongside it, then you should see a doctor. Below is a list of severe symptoms which require immediate medical assistance.  

  • Repeated bleeding from the ear
  • Continuous or increasing pain
  • Hearing loss 
  • Ringing in the ear
  • Feeling Dizzy
  • Smelling discharge from the ear
  • Swelling or redness 

Treatments For Blood In Earwax

There are multiple treatments for bloody earwax. The appropriate treatment depends on its potential cause. Get a diagnosis and follow your doctor’s instructions about the treatment options. Following are some of the common treatments for this condition.   

  • Antibiotics: The first course of action usually involves antibiotics. These are prescribed to treat infections. These can help reduce inflammation and treat bacteria.
  • Ear Tubes: The next treatment option is Ear tubes. These are small devices inserted into the eardrum to drain fluid. These are recommended for chronic ear infections.
  • Object Removal: If the bleeding is due to any object, such as food particles or insects, your doctor may remove them.
  • Surgical Removal of Abnormal Growths: Sometimes, the doctor may recommend surgery. This treatment method is mainly used to remove growths like polyps or cholesteatomas.
  • OTC Hearing Aids: If you have hearing problems, your doctor may recommend OTC hearing aids to you as well. We are one of the most trusted providers of such aids. We offer different products, including Bluetooth, CIC, BTE, and other hearing aids. 

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