Five Top Tips for Vanquishing Water From Your Ear without a Fuss

Understanding the basic structure of the ear is crucial in knowing why water can get trapped there. The human ear is divided into three sections: the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. Water usually gets lodged in the outer ear after swimming, bathing, or due to sudden rainfall. The sensation often feels strange and uncomfortable, invoking an immediate need to eliminate it. Notably, it is not a dangerous occurrence but can lead to discomfort or even infection if not promptly treated.

Maneuvering Your Body for Optimal Drainage

Physical motions can be an easy solution to get water out of your ear. By properly positioning and maneuvering your body, you can encourage water to naturally drain from your ear. Gently tugging on the earlobe while tilting your head to the side can achieve this. Alternatively, you can lie on your side with the affected ear facing down. Gravity will then help the water flow out. Though simple, these methods can be effective, especially when carried out immediately after water enters the ear.

Using Heat to Evaporate The Water

Using heat safely will turn the water in your ear into vapor, helping it exit more easily. This method involves using a warm cloth or a heating pad. Apply the heating pad or cloth to the affected ear, taking careful measures not to burn yourself. The heat must be comfortable enough for your skin to handle. This technique doesn't only help remove the water but also reduces discomfort and possible inflammation resulting from the trapped water.

Employing the Valsalva Maneuver

The Valsalva Maneuver is a technique that helps to "pop" your ears and restore balance to the pressures inside and outside of your eardrum. To perform this maneuver, close your mouth, pinch your nostrils shut, and gently exhale as if you are blowing your nose. When performed correctly, you should hear a slight "pop" sound, signaling that the Eustachian tubes have opened. This action might help the water trapped in your outer ear to be expelled.

Homemade Ear Drops for Dislodging Trapped Water

There are also homemade remedies that you can use when everything else doesn't seem to work. A homemade ear drop can be made by mixing equal parts of alcohol and white vinegar. The alcohol helps in evaporating the water while the vinegar prevents bacterial growth. Insert a few drops of the solution into the affected ear, then allow it to sit for approximately 30 seconds before draining it out by tilting your head sideways. This solution should not be used if an individual has eardrum damage or tubes in their ears.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While these methods can help remove water from your ear, it's imperative to know when to seek medical attention. If your symptoms persist for more than two days, or you experience increasing pain, hearing loss, or discharge from the ear, seek immediate medical attention. An ear infection may have developed, necessitating professional medical treatment.