(HealthDay News) - Fluid that discharges from the ear can be harmless, as in the case of ear wax, or it could be a sign of something more serious.

Here are warning signs that ear discharge should be checked by a doctor, courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

• If it is white, yellow or clear.
• If it is bloody.
• If it continues for more than five days straight.
• If it is accompanied by severe pain, fever or headache.
• If it results in hearing loss.