Introduction
Water in the ear happens when water gets trapped in the outer ear canal, usually after taking a shower or swimming. The water can be trapped for hours or days, causing discomfort or temporary hearing loss. It’s crucial to address it promptly, as it can lead to an infection or inflammation of the ear canal, which can affect hearing and cause pain.
Natural Remedies
For mild cases of water in the ear, you can try natural remedies to help the water drain out.
Tilting the Affected Ear Downwards
One of the easiest ways to get water out of your ear is to tilt your head to the side of the ear with the water, allowing gravity to pull the water out. You may need to hold this position for several seconds before you feel the water draining out.
Using a Warm Compress
A warm compress, such as a warm towel or a heating pad, can help relieve the discomfort and encourage the water to come out. Hold the warm compress against your ear for a few minutes at a time, tilting your head on the affected side.
Olive Oil
Olive oil can also help remove water from the ear canal thanks to its lubricating properties. Put a few drops of olive oil into the affected ear and wait for a few minutes before tilting your head to drain the water out.
Alcohol and Vinegar Solution
Mix equal parts of vinegar and rubbing alcohol and pour a few drops into the affected ear to help dry out the water. The alcohol helps evaporate the water, while the acid in the vinegar helps fight off bacteria and prevent infections.
Gravity Techniques
Jiggling the Ear Lobe
Gently pulling and jiggling the earlobe while tilting the head can create a slight vacuum in the ear canal, helping the water come out.
Jumping or Hopping on One Foot
While it may sound a bit unusual, jumping or hopping on one foot can help dislodge the water in your ear. The jumping motion creates a vibration that helps the water move out.
Lying on the Affected Ear
If tilting your head down or jumping doesn’t work, try lying flat on your side with the affected ear touching the ground. Stay in this position for several minutes to drain the water out.
Tips for Using a Hairdryer
A hairdryer can help evaporate the water in your ear canal, but it’s important to be cautious when using it.
Safe Distance and Temperature
Hold the hairdryer at least a foot away from the ear, using the lowest heat setting to avoid burning the delicate skin inside the ear canal.
Blow-Dry on the Low Setting
The low setting has a gentle flow of air that can help dry the ear canal without causing discomfort.
Pull the Earlobe to Straighten the Ear Canal
Pull the earlobe in different directions to help straighten the ear canal, allowing the air to circulate and dry the water.
Ear Drops Options
Over-the-counter Solutions
You can purchase over-the-counter ear drops that help dry out the water in your ear. Be sure to follow the package instructions and avoid using them if you have an eardrum perforation.
Homemade Saline Solution
Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar or rubbing alcohol to create a homemade saline solution. Put a few drops into the affected ear, wait for a few minutes, and let the water drain out.
Acupressure Techniques
Benefits of Acupressure
Acupressure can help alleviate discomfort and offer relief from the pressure of trapped water in the ear.
Pressure Points to Focus On
You can apply pressure to the area around your jaw or underneath the earlobe to help the water come out.
How to Perform Acupressure to the Ear Area
Place your index and middle fingers in the areas mentioned above and press gently while tilting your head. You can use a circular motion or hold the position for a few seconds.
Prevention
Keeping Ears Dry
Wear earplugs or a swim cap while swimming to prevent water from entering the ear canal. After showering, use a soft towel to dry your ears carefully.
Protecting Ears While Swimming
If you swim regularly, consider investing in a pair of water-resistant earplugs to protect your ears from water.
Avoiding Ear Wax Buildup
Excess ear wax can trap water in the ear canal and cause an infection or inflammation. To prevent this happening, gently clean your ears with a cotton swab in the outer part of the ear only. Avoid touching the ear canal, as it can push the wax deeper and trap water in the ear.
When to See a Doctor
Symptoms to Look For
If the natural remedies, such as the ear drops and the hairdryer, don’t help to alleviate the symptoms or the water has been trapped for more than a couple of days, it’s time to seek medical help.
Indications of a Serious Problem
You should see a doctor if you experience severe pain, discharge from the ear, or a fever. These symptoms may indicate an infection that requires medical attention.
Treatment Options Available from a Medical Professional
Your doctor may prescribe ear drops or antibiotics to treat the infection and alleviate the symptoms. In severe cases, you may need to have the ear cleaned by a medical professional.
Conclusion
Getting water trapped in your ear can be an uncomfortable experience, but there are many remedies you can try at home to help alleviate the symptoms and prevent further complications. Remember to take preventive measures to keep your ears clean and dry, and always seek medical advice if the remedies don’t work or you experience severe symptoms. By following these simple tips, you can get water out of your ear and restore your hearing and overall ear health.