Water trapped in the ear is a common issue, often occurring after swimming or showering. Although it might seem harmless at first, water that stays in the ear can lead to discomfort, a blocked feeling, or even infections like swimmer’s ear if not removed. Fortunately, there are several safe and effective methods to get water out of your ear and prevent potential problems.
Why Water Gets Stuck in the Ear
Your ear canal is designed to prevent foreign objects, including water, from entering deep into your ear. However, the shape of your ear canal or the presence of wax buildup can sometimes trap water inside. Water stuck in your ear creates a sensation of fullness, muffled hearing, or even a “sloshing” sound when you tilt your head.
While water usually drains out on its own, it can occasionally stay lodged, leading to discomfort or even ear infections.
Signs That Water Is Trapped in Your Ear
If you’ve recently been swimming, showering, or exposed to water, you might experience the following symptoms if water is trapped in your ear:
- Muffled hearing: Sounds may appear less clear or muted.
- Tickling sensation: You may feel a tickling or itching sensation deep in your ear.
- Discomfort or fullness: Your ear might feel full or plugged.
- Sloshing sound: You may hear a sloshing sound when you move your head.
It’s important to address these symptoms promptly, as prolonged water retention can cause infections.
Simple Methods to Get Water Out of Your Ear
If you’re feeling uncomfortable due to trapped water, here are several safe and effective methods to help remove it.
1. Tilt Your Head and Gravity Method
This is one of the simplest ways to remove water from your ear.
How to Do It:
- Tilt your head to the side with the affected ear facing down.
- Gently tug on your earlobe or shake your head side to side to encourage the water to drain out.
- You can also try hopping on one leg with the affected ear facing downward to help gravity pull the water out.
This method works best when there’s only a small amount of water trapped in the ear.
2. The Valsalva Maneuver
The Valsalva maneuver can help equalize pressure in your ears and may help dislodge the trapped water.
How to Do It:
- Pinch your nostrils closed with your fingers.
- Take a deep breath, then try to gently blow air through your nose with your mouth closed.
- Be careful not to blow too forcefully, as this can damage your eardrum.
- You should feel a slight “pop” in your ears, which can indicate that the Eustachian tubes have opened, potentially allowing water to escape.
This method is often used to relieve ear pressure during flights and can be helpful for dislodging water.
3. Create a Vacuum with Your Palm
This method involves using suction to draw the water out of your ear.
How to Do It:
- Tilt your head sideways with the affected ear facing down.
- Place your palm tightly against your ear, creating a seal.
- Gently press your palm in and out to create a suction-like effect, which can help pull the water out.
You can also try this while lying down on your side to use gravity in conjunction with the suction method.
4. Use a Hairdryer
A hairdryer can help evaporate the water trapped in your ear, especially if other methods haven’t worked.
How to Do It:
- Set your hairdryer to the lowest heat setting and hold it at least 12 inches away from your ear.
- Gently pull your ear up and back to open the ear canal.
- Move the dryer in a back-and-forth motion while keeping it on a low heat setting.
This helps evaporate the trapped water, but be sure not to overheat your ear or use high settings, which can cause discomfort or damage.
5. The Chewing or Yawning Method
Sometimes moving your jaw can help release water trapped in your ear.
How to Do It:
- Try chewing gum, yawning, or making exaggerated jaw movements.
- This motion can help move the muscles around your ear canal and potentially shift the trapped water, allowing it to drain out.
This method works best when the water is trapped near the opening of the ear canal.
6. Alcohol and Vinegar Eardrops
Using a homemade solution of alcohol and vinegar can help dry out water in the ear and prevent infections.
How to Make and Use It:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and rubbing alcohol.
- Use a dropper to place 3-4 drops of the mixture into the affected ear.
- Let the solution sit for 30 seconds, then tilt your head to let it drain out.
The alcohol helps evaporate the water, while the vinegar can prevent bacterial growth. This method is especially effective if you feel you may be at risk of developing an infection.
7. Over-the-Counter Eardrops
If home remedies aren’t providing relief, you can purchase over-the-counter eardrops designed to remove water from the ears. These drops often contain alcohol, which helps evaporate the trapped moisture.
How to Use Them:
- Follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Place the recommended number of drops into the affected ear and allow them to work for the specified time before draining.
These products are safe to use and can be especially helpful if you’re prone to recurring water retention in the ears.
When to See a Doctor
In most cases, trapped water will drain out on its own or with the help of these simple methods. However, there are times when you should seek medical advice:
- Persistent water: If the water stays trapped for more than 2-3 days and causes discomfort.
- Pain: If you experience severe pain or notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or drainage.
- Hearing loss: If your hearing is significantly affected and doesn’t improve after trying these methods.
In these cases, a doctor can safely remove the water and check for any infections or damage to the ear.
Preventing Water from Getting Trapped in Your Ear
Preventing water from entering your ears in the first place is the best way to avoid the discomfort and potential infections associated with trapped water. Here are some prevention tips:
- Wear earplugs: Use waterproof earplugs when swimming or showering to keep water from entering your ears.
- Dry your ears after swimming: Use a soft towel to dry your ears after exposure to water.
- Tilt your head when rinsing: In the shower, tilt your head away from the water flow when rinsing your hair to prevent water from going directly into your ears.
Taking these simple precautions can significantly reduce the chances of water getting stuck in your ears.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can trapped water in the ear cause an infection?
Ans – Yes, trapped water can lead to bacterial growth, resulting in an ear infection, commonly known as swimmer’s ear. This condition can cause pain, itching, and swelling and may require medical treatment.
2. How long can water stay in your ear?
Ans – Water can remain trapped for a few hours to a couple of days. If it stays trapped longer than 2-3 days or leads to discomfort, you should try remedies to remove it and consider seeking medical advice.
3. Will water come out of the ear on its own?
Ans – In many cases, water will drain out on its own, especially if you remain upright and give it time. However, if it doesn’t come out naturally, using simple home remedies can help speed up the process.
4. Is it safe to use cotton swabs to remove water?
Ans – No, using cotton swabs to remove water from your ear is not recommended. Swabs can push the water deeper into your ear canal and increase the risk of damage or infection.
5. Can water trapped in the ear cause hearing loss?
Ans – While water itself doesn’t cause permanent hearing loss, it can temporarily muffle your hearing until it’s drained. If left untreated and an infection develops, it can potentially lead to more serious ear problems.
6. How can I prevent water from getting stuck in my ear while swimming?
Ans – Wearing waterproof earplugs and a swim cap can help prevent water from entering your ears while swimming. Additionally, drying your ears immediately after swimming reduces the risk of water retention.
Conclusion: Get Water Out of Your Ear Safely
Trapped water in the ear is a common but uncomfortable problem. By using simple methods like the gravity technique, creating a vacuum with your hand, or applying eardrops, you can relieve the discomfort and prevent infections. If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for safe removal and treatment. With the right precautions, you can also prevent water from getting stuck in your ears in the future.
