How to Get Rid of Water in the Ear: 8 Simple Methods

Having water trapped in your ear can be an uncomfortable and frustrating experience. Whether swimming, showering, or being caught in a downpour, that lingering sensation of fluid sloshing around can be pretty bothersome. Fortunately, several easy & effective methods exist to remove water from your ear, providing relief and preventing potential complications like ear infections or ruptured eardrums. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore eight simple techniques to help you get rid of water in your ear safely and efficiently.

How to Take Water Out from the Ear?

The following are some common techniques that can help get rid of water in the ear:

1. Use Over-the-counter Ear Drops

Over-the-counter ear drops can be an excellent solution for dislodging water from your ear. These specialised drops typically contain glycerin or isopropyl alcohol, which help evaporate the trapped moisture. Before using any ear drops, it's essential to read the instructions carefully & follow the recommended dosage.
To use ear drops effectively, follow these steps:

• Tilt your head towards one side, with the affected ear facing upwards.
• Gently pull the outer ear outward & upward to straighten the ear canal.
• Squeeze the number of drops (recommended by your doctor) into your ear canal.
• Keep your head tilted for some minutes to allow the drops to penetrate and work their magic.
• Tilt your head in the opposite direction to let the water and drops drain.

Repeat this process if necessary until the water is successfully removed.

2. Perform the Valsalva Manoeuvre

The Valsalva manoeuvre is a simple technique to help dislodge water from your ear by creating a gentle pressure differential. Here's how to do it:

• Pinch your nostrils closed with your fingers.
• Close your mouth and gently exhale, creating pressure in your nasal cavity and Eustachian tubes.
• Repeat this process several times, allowing the pressure to push the water out of your ear canal.

It's crucial to perform the Valsalva manoeuvre gently to avoid causing any harm to your eardrums or inner ear structures.

3. Apply a Warm Compress

The gentle application of warmth can help loosen and dislodge trapped water in your ear. Here's how to use a warm compress:

• Soak a clean towel or cotton cloth in warm water.
• Rinse out the excess water, leaving the cloth damp but not dripping.
• Press the warm compress against the outer ear, covering the entire ear area.
• Hold the compress in place for 5-10 minutes, allowing the warmth to penetrate and loosen the water.
• Tilt your head to the side and gently shake it to help the water drain out.

Repeat this process as needed until the water is successfully removed.

4. Tilt and Jiggle Your Head

Sometimes, a simple head tilt and jiggle can be enough to dislodge stubborn water trapped in your ear. Here's how to do it:

• Tilt your head to the side of the affected ear, facing down towards the ground.
• Gently pull the outer ear outward & upward to straighten the ear canal.
• Jiggle your head from side to side while tilting it, allowing the water to drain.
• Repeat this process, alternating between tilting your head to the left and right sides.

This method is particularly effective if the water has been trapped for a short period and hasn't had time to settle deep within the ear canal.

5. Try the Chewing or Yawning Method

Chewing or yawning can create subtle movements and pressure changes that can help dislodge water from your ear. Here's how to try these methods:

• For chewing, chew a piece of gum or a soft snack while tilting your head to the affected side with the ear facing down.
• For the yawning method, take a deep breath and yawn widely, allowing the jaw movements and pressure changes to potentially dislodge the water.

Repeat these methods several times, alternating between chewing and yawning, until the water is successfully removed.

6. Create a Vacuum with Your Palm

Creating a gentle vacuum with your palm can help draw water out of your ear. Here's how to do it:

• Cup your hand firmly over the affected ear, creating a tight seal.
• Gently push and pull your hand away from your ear, creating a vacuum effect.
• Repeat this process several times, allowing the vacuum to potentially pull the water out of your ear canal.

Be careful not to press too hard or create too much suction, which could damage your eardrum.

7. Use Gravity by Lying on Your Side

Sometimes, gravity can be your best ally in removing water from your ear. Here's how to use this simple method:

• Lie down on your side of the affected ear, facing upwards.
• Remain in this position for 10-15 minutes, allowing the water to slowly drain out of your ear canal.
• If necessary, gently tilt your head back and forth to help dislodge any stubborn water droplets.

This method can be particularly effective if you've been lying on your back or side for an extended period, allowing water to accumulate in your ear.

8. Use a Hair Dryer on Low Heat

If other methods haven't worked, you can use a hair dryer set on low heat and gently evaporate the water from your ear. Here's how to do it safely:

• Put your hair dryer to the lowest heat setting & hold it at least twelve inches away from your ear.
• Aim the warm air into your ear canal, allowing the gentle heat to evaporate the trapped water.
• Periodically tilt your head to the side to allow any dislodged water to drain out.
• Be careful not to hold the hair dryer too close or use it in a high-heat setting, as this could potentially burn or damage your ear canal.

Remember, if you experience any pain, discomfort, or dizziness while attempting to remove water from your ear, discontinue the method immediately and seek medical attention.

Conclusion

Having water trapped in your ear is uncomfortable and potentially harmful. Following these eight simple methods, you can effectively and safely remove water from your ear, relieving and preventing potential complications. Always exercise caution & seek medical attention if the water persists or you experience any concerning symptoms. With a bit of patience and the proper technique, you can say goodbye to that pesky water in your ear and enjoy a comfortable, dry ear canal once again.