How to Remove Water from Your Ears
Have you ever experienced the discomfort of water trapped in your ears after swimming or taking a shower? This sensation can cause muffled sounds and a clogged feeling. Even wearing earbuds can lead to sweat getting trapped in your ears. If left unaddressed, this moisture can create a breeding ground for bacteria and potentially lead to an infection known as otitis externa or swimmer’s ear.
It’s essential to safely remove the water to avoid any complications like swimmer’s ear. If you have a ruptured eardrum or ear tubes, take extra caution while drying your ears.
Dos for Safely Removing Water from Your Ears:
Gently dry the outer ear using a soft towel or cloth. Refrain from inserting the cloth into the ear canal.
- Tilt your head to one side to facilitate water drainage and gently pull on your earlobe. This straightens the ear canal, helping the water to flow out.
- Use a blow dryer on the lowest setting and direct it towards your ear from at least a foot away. This warm, gentle airflow can aid in drying the ear.
- Consider using over-the-counter drying drops specifically designed for this purpose.
Alternatively, you can make your own drying drops at home. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol and then pour one teaspoon of the solution into each ear. Tilt your head to let the mixture drain out effectively.
By following these steps, you can safely and effectively remove water from your ears, promoting ear health and preventing potential infections.
Dos and Don’ts for Removing Water from Your Ears
Properly removing water from your ears is essential to avoid potential harm to your ear canal or earwax buildup. Follow these dos and don’ts to ensure you handle the situation safely and effectively:
Dos:
- Tilt your head: Gently tilt your head to the side with the affected ear facing downwards. This may allow the water to drain out naturally.
- Create a vacuum: Use a soft cloth or towel to create a vacuum around the ear and carefully press it against the ear opening. Then, quickly release it to create a suction effect that can help draw out the water.
- Gravity and shaking: While tilting your head, try hopping or gently shaking your head in the direction of the affected ear. This can encourage the water to come out.
- Blow-dry on low heat: Set your blow dryer on the lowest heat setting and hold it at least a foot away from your ear. Gently direct the warm air towards the ear to help evaporate the trapped water.
Don’ts:
- Avoid cotton swabs: Refrain from using cotton swabs to remove water, as they can push earwax deeper into the ear canal, disturb the natural bacteria balance, and irritate the sensitive ear canal skin.
- No fingers or fingernails: Do not insert your fingers or fingernails into your ears, as this could lead to scratches or damage to the delicate ear canal skin.
- Say no to hydrogen peroxide or drying drops: If you or your child has ear tubes or a ruptured eardrum, avoid using hydrogen peroxide or drying drops, as they can cause further complications.
By following these guidelines, you can safely and effectively remove water from your ears and reduce the risk of infections or injuries. If water remains trapped or you experience persistent discomfort, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and assistanc
How to Identify an Infection:
To recognize the signs of swimmer’s ear, in case the drying tips haven’t been effective, watch out for the following symptoms:
- Itching in the ear canal
- Redness inside the ear
- Discomfort or increasing pain when tugging on the outer ear or pressing the small bump in front of the ear
- Clear, odorless fluid draining from the ear canal
If you experience these symptoms, it’s essential to consult your doctor. They may prescribe eardrops to combat the bacterial or fungal infection, providing relief from pain, swelling, and inflammation.
Preventing Water Ingress:
Prevention is key to avoid moisture buildup in the ears. Consider these measures to keep water out:
- Remove earbuds if you become sweaty.
- During a bath, protect your outer ears by placing a cotton ball coated with petroleum jelly.
- Use cotton balls to block your ears when applying hair spray or hair dye.
- When entering the water, wear earplugs and a swim cap.
If you suspect earwax buildup, have your doctor remove it. While earwax protects the ears, excessive accumulation can trap water in the ear canal. Always consult your doctor and avoid attempting to clean it yourself.
With your doctor’s approval, you can use hydrogen peroxide to address wax buildup. If recommended, place about half an ear dropper full of a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution into your ear, allowing it to bubble up. Then, tilt your head to the side, gently pull on the top of your ear, and let the solution drain out. Note that this method is not suitable for individuals with ear tubes.