Is having water trapped in your ear a frustrating and uncomfortable experience? Whether it’s from a swim, a shower, or even a sudden change in altitude, water can easily get trapped in the ear canal, leading to a range of unpleasant symptoms such as pain, muffled hearing, and a feeling of fullness.
The 5 Best Ways to Get Water Out of Your Ear
Now that we’ve covered the importance of removing water from the ear, let’s dive into the five best methods to get that water out:
Using Gravity to Drain the Water
One of the simplest and most effective ways to get water out of your ear is to use gravity to your advantage. Here’s how to do it:
- Tilt your head to the side with the affected ear facing down.
- Gently pull your outer ear upward and backward to straighten the ear canal.
- Wait patiently for the water to drain out. This may take several minutes, so be patient.
- Avoid inserting any objects, such as cotton swabs or bobby pins, into the ear canal, as this can push the water further in and potentially damage the eardrum.
Using a Warm Compress to Unclog the Ear
Applying a warm compress to the affected ear can help loosen and soften any debris or wax that may be trapping the water. Here’s how to do it:
- Soak a clean washcloth in warm (not hot) water.
- Wring out the excess water from the washcloth.
- Gently hold the warm washcloth against the affected ear for 5-10 minutes.
- Tilt your head to the side and allow the water to drain out.
- Repeat this process a few times until the water has fully drained.
Be careful not to use water that is too hot, as it can damage the delicate skin in the ear canal.
Using Over-the-Counter Ear Drops
Over-the-counter ear drops can be an effective way to help remove water from the ear. Look for products that contain ingredients like alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, which can help break down and flush out the water. Here’s how to use them:
- Read the instructions on the ear drop package carefully and follow the directions.
- Tilt your head to the side and gently pull your outer ear up and back to straighten the ear canal.
- Apply the recommended number of drops into the affected ear.
- Gently massage the area around the ear to help the drops work their way into the canal.
- Tilt your head in the opposite direction and allow the water and drops to drain out.
Be sure to avoid using ear drops if you have a perforated eardrum or if you’ve recently had ear surgery.
The Tilt and Shake Method
The tilt and shake method is a simple and effective way to dislodge water from the ear. Here’s how to do it:
- Tilt your head to the side with the affected ear facing down.
- Gently pull your outer ear up and back to straighten the ear canal.
- Shake your head gently from side to side, being careful not to shake too vigorously.
- Repeat the tilting and shaking process a few times until the water has drained out.
This method works by using gravity and gentle movement to help the water flow out of the ear canal.
Seeking Medical Help for Water in the Ear
If the above methods don’t work or you experience persistent symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional, such as an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist or your primary care physician, can properly diagnose the issue and provide the appropriate treatment.
They may use specialized tools and techniques, such as suction or irrigation, to safely remove the water and prevent any complications.
It’s especially important to seek medical help if you experience severe pain, hearing loss, or signs of an infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge from the ear.
Preventing Water from Getting Trapped in the Ear
To help prevent water from getting trapped in your ear in the first place, consider the following tips:
- Use earplugs or custom-fitted swim caps when swimming or bathing to keep water out of the ear canal.
- Tilt your head and gently pull your outer ear up and back when exiting the water to allow any excess water to drain out.
- Avoid inserting cotton swabs, bobby pins, or other objects into your ear, as this can push water and debris further into the canal.
- Maintain good ear hygiene by regularly cleaning your ears and using over-the-counter ear drops to prevent excessive wax buildup.
- If you’re prone to water getting trapped in your ears, consider using a hair dryer (on the lowest setting) to gently blow warm air into your ear canal after swimming or bathing.
Side Effects of Removing Water from Your Ear
When trying to remove water from your ear, it’s important to do so carefully to avoid potential side effects. Here are some common side effects associated with improper water removal techniques:
Tympanic Membrane Damage
- If excessive force is used to remove water from the ear, it can potentially damage the delicate tympanic membrane (eardrum), leading to pain, hearing loss, or dizziness.
Infection
- If unclean objects or methods are used to remove water from the ear, it can introduce bacteria into the ear canal, leading to an infection known as otitis externa or “swimmer’s ear.”
Conclusion
Getting water trapped in your ear can be a frustrating and potentially harmful experience, but with the right knowledge and techniques, you can effectively remove it and prevent future occurrences.
By using gravity, warm compresses, over-the-counter ear drops, and the tilt and shake method, you can safely and effectively get that water out of your ear.
Remember, if the water doesn’t drain or you experience any concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. If you’re still struggling with water in your ear, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.
They can provide the specialized care you need to get your ear back to its healthy, comfortable state.
