Have you ever felt that uncomfortable clogged sensation in your ear after swimming, showering, or even after an intense workout with earbuds? It’s a common problem – water trapped in your ear canal. While often harmless, lingering moisture can lead to swimmer’s ear, an infection also known as otitis externa. Knowing how to safely remove water from your ear is crucial for preventing this painful condition. If you’re wondering how to get water out of your ear, this guide provides safe and effective methods, along with what you should absolutely avoid. It’s especially important to be gentle if you have a ruptured eardrum or ear tubes.
Safe Ways to Remove Water from Your Ear
If you’re experiencing the discomfort of water in your ear, here are some dos to help you safely get rid of it:
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Gently Dry Your Outer Ear: Use a soft towel or cloth to carefully dry the outer part of your ear. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal itself.
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Tilt Your Head and Wiggle Your Ear: Tip your head to the side, with the affected ear facing down. Gently pull on your earlobe in different directions. This action straightens your ear canal and can encourage the water to drain out naturally.
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Use a Hair Dryer on a Low Setting: Set your hair dryer to the lowest and coolest setting. Hold it about a foot away from your ear and direct the gentle airflow into the ear canal. The warm air can help to evaporate the water.
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Try Over-the-Counter Drying Ear Drops: You can find ear drying drops at most pharmacies. These drops are designed to help evaporate water in the ear. Follow the product instructions for proper use.
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Make Homemade Drying Drops (Vinegar and Rubbing Alcohol): For a DIY solution, mix equal parts white vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Pour about a teaspoon of this mixture into the affected ear, tilting your head to allow it to drain back out after a few moments. The alcohol helps water evaporate, and the vinegar can help prevent bacterial growth.
Methods to Avoid When Trying to Get Water Out of Your Ear
Using incorrect methods to remove water can potentially push earwax further into the ear canal or even damage your delicate ear. Here are some don’ts to keep in mind:
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Don’t Use Cotton Swabs: Cotton swabs are a common mistake. They often push earwax and debris deeper into the ear canal. They can also remove protective earwax, irritate the ear canal’s sensitive skin, and disrupt the natural bacterial balance, increasing the risk of infection.
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Don’t Stick Your Fingers or Fingernails in Your Ear: Resist the urge to poke your ear with your fingers or fingernails. This can easily scratch the delicate skin lining your ear canal, potentially leading to infection.
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Don’t Use Hydrogen Peroxide or Drying Drops if You Have Ear Tubes or a Ruptured Eardrum: If you or your child has ear tubes or a ruptured eardrum, avoid using hydrogen peroxide or over-the-counter drying drops unless specifically advised by a doctor. These substances can be harmful in these situations.
By following these dos and don’ts, you can effectively and safely get water out of your ear and minimize your risk of developing swimmer’s ear. If you experience persistent discomfort, pain, or signs of infection, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional.
