How do I remove water from my ears?
The Coronavirus pandemic doesn’t seem to have an end in sight, so many families are staying busy by spending time at the pools and beaches this summer to beat the heat. Sharing memories in the water is fun for people of all ages in a family. The more time you spend in the water, however, can lead to water getting trapped in your ears. Symptoms of water trapped in the ear include a full feeling in the ear and the sensation that water is sloshing around inside your ear. If you can’t get the water out, then it can lead to swimmer’s ear or otitis externa.
How does water get stuck in my ears?
There are a lot of reasons that water can get trapped in the ear, such as a narrow ear canal or excessive earwax. Even small foreign objects, such as dirt or debris, can prevent water from trickling out on its own.
How can I get water out of my ears?
We’ve gathered a few ways you can safely remove the water from your ears. Remember, it’s important not to put any objects in your ear canal, including cotton swabs. Doing that can push the water further inside, and you can damage your eardrum.
Tilt your head towards the ear that is bothering you and gently pull on your earlobe to try to move the water out.
Yawn or chew gum to continuously move your jaw, and then tilt your head towards the affected ear to get the water out.
Take a deep breath, pinch your nostrils together, close your mouth, and very gently exhale to try to open up your Eustachian tubes.
Lay down on the side that has the affected ear for a few minutes, and make sure to put a towel or pillow under your ear.
Press your hand firmly over the affected ear while tilting your head to that same side. Gently push and release your palm against your ear, which will work as a suction to pull the water out.
Put a warm compress to your ear and gently massage to get the water out.
If the water remains in my ears, what’s the risk?
When the water stays in your ears, you risk bacteria growing in your ear, which can then cause swimmer’s ear. Swimmer’s ear develops in wet and humid conditions, but can also develop from scratches in the ear or even allergies or skin reactions. Symptoms of swimmer’s ear include itching, redness in the ear canal, discomfort, and a clear fluid draining out.
How can I prevent swimmer’s ear?
If you tend to get water trapped in your ears, it will be wise to use over-the-counter earplugs anytime you will be in the water. If you swim regularly, then you can talk to your hearing care professional about purchasing a set of custom earplugs that are designed for extensive water use.
If you have problems with your ears after swimming, contact Sound Hearing Care at 864-881-1663 to discuss ways to prevent ear issues so you can continue to enjoy living your life. We have curbside or in-office appointments available at any one of our four convenient locations in Simpsonville, Greer, Travelers Rest, and Greenville.
Got water stuck in your ears? Read our tips for safely removing it!
Interested in more articles about hearing aids?
