How to Safely Remove Water from Your Ear

Posted on by Advanced ENT & Allergy

If water becomes trapped in your ear canal, you can develop a painful infection known as swimmer’s ear (otitis externa). This can happen when swimming at NL Aquatic Center or even just taking a shower in your own home. According to one article published in the National Library of Medicine, “Acute otitis externa disrupts activities of daily living in approximately 25% of affected patients.”

Below we review how to safely remove water from your ear to prevent this type of infection, which can also lead to ear pain.

Tilt Your Head to the Side

Hearing exam for elderly citizen people. Otolaryngologist doctor checking mature woman's ear using otoscope or auriscope at medical clinic

It may be the case that all you have to do to remove water from your ear is tilt your head or lie down on your side for a few minutes. You can place a towel under your head to absorb the water.

Create a Vacuum with Your Palm

To draw the water out, you can also create a vacuum by placing your cupped palm over your ear to form a seal, then moving your hand back and forth quickly but gently.

Pull Your Earlobe

Another strategy to help get water out of your ear is to gently pull your earlobe backward or downward. This can move the cartilage of the ear canal so that it’s straighter and water can more easily roll out. You can also shake your head from side to side while doing this so that the centrifugal force can draw it out.

Use a Hair Dryer

Turning on a hair dryer to the lowest, coolest setting and aiming it toward your ear can help dry up the water. Be sure to move the hair dryer back and forth to prevent a burn on the skin.

Try Rubbing Alcohol & White Vinegar

Flushing out the ear with a 50/50 mixture of rubbing alcohol and white vinegar can dry up the ear and create an acidic environment that prevents the growth of bacteria. You can apply just three or four drops of this mixture to each ear, then after 30 seconds, tilt your head so the mixture can drain out.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with an ear expert, call Advanced ENT & Allergy today.