Having water trapped inside your ear can be an uncomfortable and annoying experience. It can occur after swimming, taking a shower, or even from excessive sweating. The trapped water can cause temporary hearing loss, a feeling of fullness, and even pain.
Fortunately, there are several quick remedies that can help you get rid of the water and find relief. In this article, we will discuss ten effective methods to remove water from your ears.
1. Gravity Method
The simplest and most natural way to remove water from your ear is by using the gravity method. Tilt your head to the affected side and let the trapped water drain out naturally.
You can gently tug your earlobe or chew gum to encourage the water to come out. Avoid inserting anything into your ear, such as cotton swabs, as it may push the water deeper and cause damage.
2. Yawning or Jaw Exercise
Yawning or performing jaw exercises can help equalize the pressure in your ears and encourage the water to dislodge. Open your mouth wide and move your jaw up and down, as if you are chewing gum vigorously.
This action may assist in pushing the water out of your ear canal.
3. Vacuum Method
The vacuum method creates a pressure difference that can help remove the trapped water from your ear. Tilt your head to the affected side and press the palm of your hand against your ear, creating a vacuum seal.
Gently push the hand in and out, repeating the motion several times. This technique may cause the water to get sucked out of your ear.
4. Warm Compress
Using a warm compress can help evaporate the trapped water by increasing the temperature inside your ear canal. Dip a clean washcloth in warm water, wring out the excess, and hold it against the affected ear for a few minutes.
The warmth encourages the water to evaporate, providing relief from discomfort.
5. Alcohol and Vinegar Solution
An alcohol and vinegar solution can help dry out the water trapped in your ear. Mix equal parts of rubbing alcohol and white vinegar, and using a dropper, put a few drops of the solution into the affected ear.
Tilt your head to the side and allow the mixture to stay in your ear for a few seconds before draining it out. The alcohol helps evaporate the water, while the vinegar prevents any bacterial growth.
6. Blow Dryer Technique
Using a blow dryer on low heat can help evaporate the water stuck in your ear. Hold the dryer a few inches away from your ear and gently move it back and forth. Ensure you use the dryer on the lowest temperature setting to avoid any discomfort or damage.
It is essential to keep the blow dryer at a safe distance to prevent burns.
7. Saline Solution Rinse
A saline solution can help flush out trapped water and reduce the risk of infection. Mix 1/4 teaspoon of salt in 1/2 cup of warm water until it dissolves completely.
Using a dropper or a bulb syringe, put a few drops of the saline solution into your ear, tilting your head to let the water drain out after a few seconds.
8. Olive Oil Drops
Olive oil can help soften the earwax and facilitate the removal of trapped water. Warm a small amount of olive oil, but ensure it is not too hot. Using a dropper, put a few drops of the oil into the affected ear, and allow it to sit for a few minutes.
Tilt your head to the side and let the water along with the softened wax drain out.
9. Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation can help alleviate the symptoms of water trapped in your ear. Boil water in a pot and carefully lean over it, covering your head with a towel to create a steam tent.
Inhale the warm steam for a few minutes, as it may help the water evaporate from your ears.
10. Over-the-counter Ear Drops
If none of the home remedies work, you can try using over-the-counter ear drops. These drops are specifically designed to treat water-clogged ears and aid in drying out the trapped water.
Follow the instructions on the packaging and administer the drops as directed.