Ear wax accounts for most ear discharge. However, discharge may also be caused by minor irritation or infection. Ear wax serves as a protective lining for the ear canal. It is almost never a problem unless attempts are made to "clean" the ear canals; if cleaning is done improperly, the ear canal can become blocked. Taking warm showers or washing the outside of the ears with a warm, moist washcloth usually helps prevent the build-up of wax. A ruptured eardrum in a child who has been complaining of ear pain is often demonstrated by a white, slightly bloody, or yellow discharge from the ear. Dry crusted material on the child's pillow is often a sign of a ruptured eardrum. Don't get alarmed over a ruptured eardrum. Eardrum rupturing is the first sign of the healing process. Antibiotics, as prescribed by the doctor, can help prevent further infection during the healing process. Eardrum ruptures in children will usually heal completely within a few weeks.
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