It is a common experience to have water enter the ear canal, often occurring after swimming, showering, or bathing. While typically harmless, the sensation of trapped water can be bothersome and create a feeling of pressure or muffled hearing. This temporary condition usually resolves on its own, but knowing how to address it can alleviate discomfort and prevent issues.
How Water Normally Drains and Why It Gets Stuck
The ear is designed to drain water effectively. The ear canal has a slight downward slope, allowing gravity to assist in expelling water. The skin lining the canal also helps with evaporation, drying out any moisture.
Water can become trapped when natural drainage is impeded. Earwax can absorb water and swell, creating a blockage. A narrow or unusually shaped ear canal can also prevent water from draining, leading to it getting stuck.
Minor inflammation or swelling within the ear canal can narrow the passage and trap water. This allows water to linger, increasing the likelihood of discomfort or infections.
Effective Ways to Remove Trapped Water
Several home remedies can help remove water from the ear. Tilting the head to the side with the affected ear facing down allows gravity to pull the water out. Gently tugging on the earlobe while tilting can also help straighten the ear canal, helping it drain.
Creating a gentle vacuum can also be effective; pressing the palm of your hand tightly over the affected ear and then quickly releasing it can sometimes suction the water out. Another method involves using a hairdryer set to its lowest, coolest setting, held several inches away from the ear to encourage evaporation. This helps dry out the moisture.
Over-the-counter ear drops for water removal are available. These often contain alcohol, which helps to dry out the water, and glycerin, which can soothe the ear. Always follow product instructions and avoid using these if you suspect a perforated eardrum or have ear tubes.
Recognizing Complications and When to See a Doctor
While trapped water often resolves without intervention, it can sometimes lead to complications such as an outer ear infection, known as “swimmer’s ear.” Symptoms indicating infection include persistent pain, redness, or swelling around the ear. You might also notice a discharge from the ear, which could be clear, cloudy, or pus-like.
Other signs that warrant medical attention include a fever, worsening pain, or a noticeable decrease in hearing that persists beyond a day or two. If these symptoms appear, or if you have a history of ear problems such as a perforated eardrum or ear tubes, seek medical care. A doctor can diagnose and treat the issue, which may include antibiotic ear drops.
Preventing Water from Getting Trapped
Taking steps can reduce the chances of water becoming trapped in the ear. Wearing earplugs or a swimming cap while swimming or showering creates a physical barrier that prevents water from entering the ear canal. This is especially helpful for individuals prone to trapped water or infections.
After any water exposure, thoroughly drying the ears is important. Gently tilting your head to each side and using the corner of a soft towel or tissue to absorb moisture at the outer ear can be effective. Avoid inserting cotton swabs deep into the ear canal, as these can push earwax further in, creating blockages, or irritate the skin, increasing the risk of infection.