Whether after a bath, a quick shower or laps in the pool, water often remains in the ear and affects our hearing. Your ear feels clogged and everything sounds muffled. Sometimes this effect lasts for several days. Since water can also contain germs that can cause an infection, it is understandable if you want to get it out of your ear quickly. That's why we've compiled the best and fastest ways to rid your ear of fluid in this post.
What are the consequences of water in the ear?
Liquid in the ear promotes the growth of fungi and bacteria and can lead to infection, accompanied by swelling or irritation. Often there is also itching, which increases when the earlobe is pulled. Cleaning the ear too often is also a problem, as this often removes too much earwax. However, this protects your ears from harmful bacteria or fungi. If water gets into the ear, the defense function is weakened and there is a risk of acute ear canal infections. There is a high risk of such infections especially when swimming in dirty water or in a hot tub. In severe cases, such an infection can even lead to hearing loss or the inflammation spreads to the inner ear and other parts of the body. If water in the ear causes pain, you should definitely consult a doctor. Pain or itching indicates an existing infection in the ear canal. Increased contact with salt and chlorine irritate the ear canal and promote the penetration of foreign bodies. Cosmetic ingredients can also cause irritation and cracking of the ear and, if necessary, promote the penetration of fluid in the ear.
How can I remove water in the ear?
There are several options to remove water from the ear. However, usually fluids disappear from the ear on their own. Should you want to remove the liquid faster, we have listed here the best supportive measures to help you hear well again quickly.
Create a vacuum in your ear
Tilt your head slightly to the side and place your palm on the affected ear. Now quickly pull your hand together and open it again. The water should be pulled out of the ear by the vacuum.
Let the water evaporate
Another way to remove water from your ear is to let the water evaporate. To do this, hold a hair dryer to your ear at the lowest setting, keeping a distance of at least 30cm from your ear. Move the hair dryer back and forth while pulling on your earlobe. After a few minutes of blow drying, the water in your ear should have evaporated.
Warm compress on the ear
Soak a washcloth in warm water and place it on your ear. Leave the washcloth for 30 seconds and take a one-minute break. Repeat the process four to five times.
Pulling on the earlobe
Tilt your head to the side. The affected ear should be facing down. Then, pull on your earlobe. The water will start to move and can drain away.
Valsava Method
Close your mouth while holding your nose. Then blow your nose to clear the ear canal. Often, you may hear a short pop as you do this. This is a sign that the tube is now clear.
Over-the-counter ear drops
You can find over-the-counter ear drops with natural ingredients at some pharmacies. Sometimes water causes the earwax to swell. This can be softened by the ear drops and flow off. You should, however, read the package insert in advance to avoid unwanted side effects.
Ear candles
Ear candles can also provide relief for water in the ear. These are hollow candles made of wax that you light while lying down. The wax provides heat in the ear and can cause a drainage of the water or earwax. However, this method should be used with caution. If the heat in your ear feels uncomfortable, it is best not to use it. This method is an alternative medical measure. The heat is supposed to stimulate positive processes in the ear and drain the water. However, a remedy for clogged ear canals is not scientifically confirmed.
The water in the ear does not disappear and I have pain?
In this case, a possible infection in the ear announces itself. See an ear doctor immediately. Any water left behind will be suctioned out. If inflammation has already occurred, your ear doctor will prescribe ear drops or antibiotics. Do not delay treatment unnecessarily, as complications such as hearing loss or chronic inflammation of the ear may occur. An acute ear canal infection can usually be treated well with conventional medicines if treatment is given promptly. In the case of clogged ear canals, professional cleaning by an ear specialist can also provide relief. Particularly specific and rare fungi or bacteria can delay treatment. The specific anatomical nature of the ear can also have a negative effect on treatment of ear canal inflammation. In addition, an allergic reaction to ingredients of ear drops can also cause irritation.
Can I prevent water from entering the ear?
Yes you can prevent water from entering in advance. Water protection earplugs protect the ear canal from water entering the ear when swimming or bathing. However, you should disinfect the earplugs regularly after wearing them to prevent bacteria or fungi from entering. Your hearing healthcare professional can help you choose the right earplugs. Also, avoid cleaning your ears too frequently and intensively. The earwax in your ears protects you from infections, and if there is too little of it in your ears, your defense function is weakened. For proper ear hygiene, warm water is sufficient. The frequent use of ear swabs should be avoided. If you are a diver or swimmer who regularly travels in deeper waters, it is advisable to use natural ear drops before contact with the water. Do not go too deep into the ear canal with cotton swabs, injuries and cracks make it easy for liquid and other foreign bodies to enter the ear. Unless absolutely necessary, also avoid using bathing caps while swimming; these can scratch the skin in your ear and also create unfavorable opportunities for bacteria and fungus.