In some patients, the problem happens only because of infection in the eardrum. To properly diagnose the condition, doctors perform an ear examination called oto-microscopy. Through this test, the ear is cleaned and examined carefully so the exact cause becomes clear.

The reason proper diagnosis is important is because treatment depends completely on the condition. If the patient has unsafe CSM or a serious ear hole, then the treatment is mainly surgery. On the other hand, if the problem is only an infection of the eardrum, then medicines are usually enough and surgery may not be required.

Dr. Rahul Agrawal also mentions another condition called safe CSM, where there is a hole in the eardrum but the condition may not be very dangerous initially. In many such cases, surgery is still needed. However, if the hole is very small, treatments like cautery patching or PRF may help close it without major surgery.

One important concern highlighted by Dr. Rahul Agrawal is that many patients continue using ear medicines or drops for months or even years without proper follow-up. Initially, these medicines help dry the ear and reduce infection, so patients feel the problem has been cured. However, this is often temporary relief.

He explains that prolonged use of ear medicines without supervision can sometimes affect the ear nerves and may even reduce hearing ability over time. Doctors prescribe these medicines for a limited period, usually to control infection before performing the required definitive treatment.

According to Dr. Rahul Agrawal, patients should avoid ignoring continuous ear discharge and should consult an ENT specialist for proper evaluation and long-term treatment rather than relying only on temporary medicines.