Water trapped in your ear can be more than just annoying. It can be the beginning of an ear infection known as swimmer's ear. Water entering your ear canal may bring bacteria with it from your skin that can cause an infection. Excess moisture in the ear canal also thins out the protective wax layer and changes the pH, making ear wax less effective. If the skin inside the ear canal has a tear or irritation, the water and lack of wax allow bacteria to infect the abrasion. If you experience water pressure in your ear canal, take the time to drain it and save yourself the agony of infection.
Step 1
Move your head from side to side in a rocking motion so that your ear goes toward your shoulder, return your head to center and drop the opposite ear to the other shoulder. Pull down on your earlobes with your fingers as you rock. The change in pressure may be enough force the trapped water out.
Step 2
Mix 1 part white vinegar and 1 part rubbing alcohol in a small container.
Step 3
Dip your eyedropper into the mixture. Press the bulb at the top of the dropper and draw 1 tsp. of fluid into the eyedropper using the guide marks on the tube as your measure.
Step 4
Tilt your head to the side so the ear with water in it is facing up. Hold the dropper above your ear so the tip of the dropper is near the external area of your ear. Discharge the fluid by pressing the eyedropper bulb. Do not touch the tip to the ear, but hover above it. As the fluid hits the external ear, tilt your head slightly back or forward to guide the liquid into the canal.
Step 5
Place a clean towel over a pillow. Lie down on your side on the towel and let the fluid drain out of the ear. Repeat application as necessary to drain all accumulated water out of the ears.
Tips and Warnings
- The purpose of wax is to protect the surface and tiny components of the ear. Digging out wax with a foreign object pushes the wax further down the canal. This process can break the skin and open it to infection. Do not insert foreign objects in your ear, such as bobby pins or cotton swabs. Protect your ears when swimming, especially if you are prone to ear infections. Wear ear plugs. Place cotton in ears when applying hair products, such as sprays.
- Do not assume a painful ear only has water trapped inside. Infection causes pressure against the ear drum and results in pain. An ear with discharge or pain is probably infected. Untreated ear infections can lead to more serious medical conditions, such as mastoiditis. Seek medical attention if your ear hurts or if you have discharge or fever.
Things You'll Need
- White vinegar
- Rubbing alcohol
- Mixing container
- Spoon
- Eyedropper with teaspoon measurements
- Towel
- Pillow
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