Practical Tips on How to Get Water Out of Your Ear
A dip in the pool or a refreshing shower can unexpectedly lead to water getting stuck in your ears. This is a common nuisance, and while not serious at most times, water trapped in your ears can muffle your hearing and give you an uncomfortable sensation. Finding the right method on how to safely get water out of your ear is key to avoiding discomfort and potential infections.
For those looking for trusted advice, this article provides safe, practical methods for removing water from your ears, ensuring your hearing remains clear and unobstructed. Whether you’ve just stepped out of the pool or finished your morning shower, these tips will help you get back to hearing the world around you with ease.
The Reasons Water Gets Trapped in Your Ears
Ever wonder why water sometimes refuses to leave your ear canal? There are many ways water finds its way in and causes clogged ears. Sometimes, the shape of a person’s ear canal might make it easier for water to get trapped. In other cases, earwax buildup can block the water’s path out of the ear. Even activities you might not think of, such as vigorous towel drying, can push water deeper into your ears. Children often face this issue after playing in the water for extended periods, but adults are not immune, especially those who enjoy water sports or have occupations exposed to water.
When water stays in your ear for too long, it can create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow and lead to infections such as swimmer’s ear. This condition can cause pain, redness, and sometimes discharge from the affected ear. Use any of the following methods below to help prevent water from staying in your ear.
Time and Gravity Can Work Wonders
One of the simplest and most natural ways to remove water from your ear is to use time and gravity. Lie your head down on a towel on the side where the water is trapped. Often, gravity will do its job, allowing the water to slowly drain down and out. Of course, patience will be key with this method.
Tilt, Shake, and Tug
While keeping your head tilted to one side, gently shake your head. This action can help dislodge the water. If water remains, try lightly tugging on your earlobe while tilting your head downwards. Another effective method involves moving your jaw by yawning or chewing, which sometimes shifts and straightens the ear canal and encourages water to escape.
Use a Blow Dryer (Carefully!)
A gentle and warm airflow can aid in evaporating trapped water – but proceed with caution to prevent causing yourself more harm than good. Set your blow dryer on the coolest setting and the lowest speed and position it about a foot away from your ear. Move the dryer in a back-and-forth motion and lightly tug down on your earlobe so the air flows directly towards the ear canal. Do this for a few moments until you feel the water beginning to evaporate.
Rubbing Alcohol and Vinegar
If you don’t have a middle ear infection, a perforated eardrum, or tympanostomy tubes in place, you can use rubbing alcohol and vinegar to create an effective solution for ejecting water from your ears. Mix equal parts alcohol and vinegar and use a dropper to insert three to four drops into the affected ear. Gently massage the outer ear, then, after 30 seconds, tilt your head to allow the mixture and any trapped water to drain out.
Hydrogen Peroxide Drops
Applying a few drops of hydrogen peroxide in your ear may also help remove trapped water. For effective use, tilt your head and apply three or four drops. Wait a minute or two before tilting back to drain. Similar to the alcohol/vinegar solution, don’t use this method if you have an ear infection, perforated eardrum, tympanostomy tubes, or signs of ear trouble.
Create a Vacuum Effect
Draw water out of your ear through the power of suction by tilting your head and pressing your cupped palm tightly against it. This will create a tight seal. Quickly push and pull your hand against your ear while altering between a flat and cupped shape. Then tilt your head downwards for the water to exit.
Over-the-Counter Ear Drops
For persistent water in your ear, consider over-the-counter ear drops as an effective next step before proceeding to a hearing care professional. These specially formulated drops can help eliminate water and remove bacteria and earwax buildup. Always seek advice from your pharmacist on the best option for your situation and follow the product instructions carefully.
Methods to Avoid
Attempting to remove fluid in your ears should always be done with health and safety in mind. Resist the urge to insert anything into your ear canal, including cotton swabs, fingers, or other objects. This approach can push water deeper into the canal, introduce bacteria, and cause infection. Using objects to poke around in your ear can also damage your ear canal and risk puncturing your eardrum. Always opt for safer methods that respect your ear’s natural structure and health.
Prevent Water From Getting in Your Ears
To minimize the risk of water getting stuck in your ears, consider wearing earplugs or a swimming cap when engaging in aquatic activities. Keep ears dry by gently dabbing with a towel after exposure to water. Regularly clean your ears to avoid wax buildup, which can trap water.
Get Expert Advice from Taylor Hearing Centers
When home remedies don’t resolve your issue, it’s crucial to consult with a hearing care professional. Seek professional care if you notice persistent discomfort, hearing loss, or discharge from your ear after trying to remove water. These symptoms may indicate an infection or other condition requiring medical attention.
Our specialists at Taylor Hearing Centers offer personalized solutions to address your specific needs, ensuring your ears remain healthy and clear. Our virtual and in-person appointments make it easy to access expert advice from the comfort of your home or at one of our hearing care centers. Don’t let water in your ears impact your daily life – reach out to us today to schedule a consultation.
