How to get water out of the ear: Many people are exposed to drops of water entering the ear while bathing or performing ablution, which causes discomfort when water remains in the ear for a long time. This can lead to health problems and annoying pain. Therefore, in my Dalili Medical many people wonder about the methods that can be followed at home to get rid of this water.

**Eardrum suction procedure**

 

Eardrum suction is a simple medical procedure performed in the ear, nose and throat clinic. The doctor usually uses a local anesthetic such as lidocaine to relieve pain, and relies on a magnifying glass to see more clearly. After that, he makes a small hole in the eardrum to facilitate the drainage of the accumulated fluids behind it. In many cases, a small tube is inserted into this hole to ensure the continuation of the drainage process. The hole is left to close naturally without the need for surgical stitches.

**Is water remaining in the ear dangerous?**

 

A feeling of water in the ear can occur as a result of water entering while bathing or swimming, and may be accompanied by changes in hearing. It is important to know that water can come out of the ear naturally, but if it persists for a long time, it can lead to an ear infection.

**How ​​can I tell if there is water in my ear?**

 

The most common symptom of water accumulation behind the eardrum is hearing loss, whether in one ear or both ears. In adults, a person may feel a blockage in the ear or difficulty hearing as before. This may also be accompanied by tinnitus (ringing in the ear) or a feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear.

***Can water in the ear cause dizziness***?

 

A buildup of fluid in the middle or inner ear can lead to a feeling of dizziness and imbalance. This feeling can range from a feeling of discomfort to a severe condition that affects balance. The pressure resulting from this condition can also increase anxiety and affect blood pressure.

**Reasons for performing a tympanostomy**

 

A doctor may recommend a tympanostomy to treat symptoms resulting from fluid accumulation in the middle ear. This procedure is useful in the following cases:

- Treating hearing loss resulting from fluid accumulation for a long time despite receiving treatment.

- Preventing delayed speech development in children due to hearing loss.

- Maintaining pressure balance between the middle ear and the outer ear.

- Reducing the frequency of otitis media attacks and fluid accumulation in them.

- Treating otitis media that does not respond to drug treatment.

- Taking a sample of middle ear fluid for analysis and study in the laboratory.

**How ​​long does water remain in the ear**

 

Water can remain in the ear for several days or even months, which may cause an annoying feeling. If water remains in the ear for more than two or three days, or signs of infection appear, it is necessary to consult a doctor immediately. This is to avoid worsening symptoms that may lead over time to long-term damage to the ear or even hearing loss.

**Causes of water entering the ear**

 

Anyone can be exposed to water entering the ear, but there are some cases and causes that increase the likelihood of this happening:

- Swimming regularly.

- Scratching or scratching the ear canal with fingers or using a cotton swab.

- Having skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.

- Excessive earwax, or using a swimming cap that may lead to water retention in the ear.

**Why does water get into the ear?**

 

Water usually collects in the ear during bathing or immersion. Water can enter from the pool, the sea, or even from the shower, causing the distinctive muffled sound. This happens when water invades the ear canal and settles in the ear, where the water follows the oblique path of the ear canal until it reaches the eardrum. As a result of water retention, the eardrum cannot perform its function normally.

**How ​​to get rid of water in the ear?**

 

Here are some common methods that can help you get water out of your ear:

1. **Use over-the-counter ear drops**Over-the-counter ear drops are an effective way to get rid of water in the ear. These drops usually contain ingredients such as glycerin or isopropyl alcohol, which help evaporate the trapped moisture. It is important to read the instructions carefully and follow the recommended dosage before using any drops.

To use ear drops effectively, follow these steps:

- Tilt your head to one side, with the affected ear facing up.

- Gently pull the outer ear outward and upward to widen the ear canal.

- Put the number of drops recommended by your doctor into the ear canal.

- Keep your head tilted for a few minutes to allow the drops to penetrate.

- Then, tilt your head in the opposite direction to facilitate the exit of the water and drops.

- You can repeat this process if necessary until the water is completely removed.

2. Perform the Valsalva maneuver The Valsalva maneuver is a simple technique that helps to get water out of your ear by creating a gentle pressure difference. Here's how to do it:

. Close your nostrils with your fingers.

. Close your mouth and then gently exhale, which increases the pressure in your nasal cavity and Eustachian tube.

. Repeat these steps several times, allowing the pressure to push the water out of your ear canal.

It is important to perform the Valsalva maneuver gently to avoid any damage to your eardrum or the inner ear.

. Use a warm compress Applying gentle heat can help loosen water trapped in your ear. Here's how to use a warm compress:

- Soak a clean towel or cotton cloth in warm water.

- Wring out the excess water, making sure the cloth stays damp but not completely soaked.

- Place the warm compress over your outer ear, covering the entire area.

- Continue to apply pressure to the compress for 5-10 minutes, allowing the heat to penetrate and loosen the water.

- Tilt your head to theGently shake your head to help drain the water.

- Repeat these steps as needed until the water is successfully drained.

4. Tilt and move your head Sometimes, tilting your head can be enough to get the water out of your ear. Here’s how:

- Start by tilting your head toward the side of the affected ear, so that it’s facing the ground.

- Gently pull your outer ear outward and upward to help the water drain from your ear canal.

- Move your head from side to side while tilting, which helps the water drain.

- Repeat these steps, alternating between your left and right sides.

5. Try chewing or yawning techniques Chewing or yawning techniques can help create subtle movements and pressure changes, making it easier to get the water out of your ear. Here’s how to do these techniques:

To chew, you can chew a piece of gum or eat a soft snack, tilting your head toward the affected side and pointing your ear down.

As for the yawning technique, take a deep breath and then yawn widely, allowing the jaw movements and pressure changes to push the water out. Repeat these steps several times, alternating between chewing and yawning, until you successfully expel the water.

6. Create a vacuum using your palm Creating a vacuum using your palm can help you draw water out of your ear. Here’s how:

. Place your palm firmly over the affected ear, creating a tight seal.

. Gently push your hand away from your ear and then pull it out, creating a vacuum effect.

. Repeat these steps several times, allowing the water to be drawn out of your ear canal.

Make sure not to squeeze too hard or create too much suction, as this can damage your eardrum.

. Create a vacuum using your palm

Creating a vacuum using your palm can help you draw water out of your ear. Here’s how:

. Place your palm firmly over the affected ear, creating a tight seal.

. Gently push your hand away from your ear and then pull it out, creating a vacuum effect.

Repeat these steps several times, allowing the water to be drawn out of your ear canal.

Be sure not to press too hard or create too much suction, as this can damage your eardrum.

7. Use a hair dryer on low heat If other methods don’t work, you can use a hair dryer on low heat to gently evaporate the water from your ear. Here’s how to do it safely:

Set your hair dryer to its lowest heat setting, then hold it at least twelve inches away from your ear. Direct the warm air toward your ear canal, which will help gently evaporate the trapped water.

Tilt your head to the side periodically to facilitate the drainage of any remaining water.

Avoid holding a hair dryer too close to your ear or using it on a high heat setting, as this can cause burns or damage to the ear canal.

8**Pull or shake the earlobe**: You can pull or shake the earlobe, tilt your head towards your shoulder, then move your head from side to side to help the water come out.

9**Use olive oil**: Olive oil is an effective way to prevent ear infections. This can be done by heating some olive oil and placing it in a small bowl, then putting a few drops of it inside the ear that contains water. After that, it is recommended to lie on the other side for 10 minutes, then get up and tilt your head down, which helps the water come out.

10**Use steam**: Warm steam helps to remove water from the middle ear canal. This can be achieved by taking a hot shower or using a sauna, where the ear is exposed to steam and covered with a towel to allow the steam to enter the ear.

11**Use hydrogen peroxide ear drops**: Some types of drops help evaporate the water in the ear and prevent the growth of bacteria, which reduces the risk of infection. In the event of water blockage due to wax, hydrogen peroxide drops are a suitable solution. However, alcohol and vinegar drops should be avoided for people with otitis media or a ruptured eardrum, as well as for those who use ear tubes, or if symptoms of infection such as pain, swelling, and bleeding from the ear appear.

**Symptoms of water in the ear**

 

In some cases, water comes out of the ear on its own because earwax repels water. However, if this does not happen, bad bacteria can grow and cause infections. Symptoms of water in the ear may vary in severity, but may include the following:

A feeling of water in the ear with discomfort or pain.

A feeling of itching or a tickling sensation in one or both ears.

An ear infection that causes pain and redness in the ear or a feeling of pain when touched.

Discharge from the ear.

Water in the ear can cause a feeling of pressure or pain in the ear.

Difficulty hearing Water in the ear can cause temporary hearing loss or muffled hearing, as it prevents sound waves from reaching the eardrum.

**Damages of water entering the ear**

 

Although water entering the ear usually does not cause harm, water remaining in it for several days may lead to some problems, such as:

Earwax in the ear canal can absorb water, causing the ear to swell and close.

If the ear pain lasts for more than two days, this may be a sign of an infection in the ear canal.

Ear pain and itching may also indicate an infection caused by germs in the water. In this case, an otolaryngologist can prescribe an antibiotic if necessary, and remove the remaining water from the ear.

If these warning signs are not treated, it may lead to hearing loss in the worst case, but this is rare.

*****Tips to reduce water entering the ear****

 

1. It is preferable to use swimming earplugs before entering the water, as they help reduce the possibility of water entering the ear.

2. Make sure the ear is clean and dry after leaving the water.

3. Avoid swimming in contaminated water.

4. You canPut a drop of olive oil in the ear, as it helps soften the tissues inside it and makes it easier to get rid of water.

5. It is important to visit the doctor periodically to check on the health of the ear and follow the instructions he provides.

6. Avoid playing with the ear frequently, especially when trying to remove wax, as this can cause harm or scratches.

7. Make sure to avoid annoying sounds and repetitive noises, such as loud music.

8. You can use a clean piece of cloth to clean the ear instead of cotton swabs, as the swabs may push the wax inside instead of removing it

What ingredients or treatments should you avoid?

 

One of the methods mentioned above can help remove water from the ear. If it does not work, do not resort to harsher methods to unclog the ears, as the list we will provide you with may exacerbate the problem, causing infection, perforation of the eardrum, or even permanent hearing loss.

Fingers**Using your fingers to get water out of your ears is not a good idea. Instead, you may be forcing water deeper into your ear, potentially damaging your ear canal. Worse still, your dirty fingers are an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, especially under your fingernails.

**Things** “Things” is a very broad category, as it can include a wide range of items. The use of the word here is intentional. You should avoid putting anything in your ear as a means of getting water out. Ear swabs and tools like bobby pins are among these items, as they can damage your ear canal or eardrum, and even puncture it. So, it’s best to keep anything out of your ears.

**Alcohol or Hydrogen Peroxide** Alcohol or hydrogen peroxide should not be used to remove water from your ear. These substances not only dry out your ear, but they also prevent the production of wax and oils that are essential for cleaning and protecting your ears. If they seep into your inner ear, they can put you at risk for permanent hearing loss.

**Vinegar and Other Solutions** Mixing vinegar with any other substance and pouring it into your ear is not a good idea. In fact, most ENT doctors do not recommend using over-the-counter ear drops. Your ears need a delicate chemical balance to function properly. Any foreign substances or solutions can compromise your inner ear and cause permanent hearing loss.

**Conclusion** When looking for ways to get rid of water in your ear, most of the solutions and methods available are external treatments. We have compiled the best natural methods and treatments, as well as ingredients and treatments to avoid, to help you get rid of water in your ear safely and effectively. If you have any questions or comments about our list, feel free to add them in the comments below.

What can you expect after the procedure?

 

The results of the procedure are visible immediately after the procedure, as the pain and pressure caused by fluid accumulation are reduced. After that, the patient should follow the doctor’s instructions as follows:

- Change the cotton used to absorb the drainage regularly, and the drainage usually stops within two to three days.

- Use anesthetic drops 2 to 3 times daily in case of pain after the procedure.

- Wear earplugs while showering to avoid water entering the ear.

- Do not clean the ear or insert any foreign object into it, except for cotton plugs according to the doctor's recommendations.

- Keep the ear dry and refrain from swimming.

Healing is complete after about 4 weeks of the procedure without any complications or problems. In case of using drainage tubes, the patient should expect them to come out.