How to Get Water Out of the Ear Drum Fast
Nearly everyone who swims and showers regularly has experienced the frustration of having water trapped in their ears. Not only is this situation annoying, it also carries the risk of promoting swimmer's ear, a painful infection of the ear canal caused by a proliferation of bacteria. Water in the ear can be treated successfully at home with a few simple steps.
Things You'll Need
- Clean, soft towel or cloth
- Blow dryer
- 1 tablespoon rubbing alcohol
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- Cup for mixing rubbing alcohol and vinegar
- Ear Dropper
Instructions
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Drying Water Trapped in the Ear
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1
Tip your head to the side. Hold that position for a moment, giving the water a chance to drain out on its own.
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2
Use the corner of a clean, soft towel or cloth to dry the ear canal. Be gentle. Do not push the towel or cloth deep into the canal.
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3
Set a blow dryer to the lowest strength and heat settings. Holding the dryer 12 inches from the effected ear, direct the air into the canal.
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4
Mix the rubbing alcohol and vinegar in the cup and fill the ear dropper with the combined solution.
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5
Tilt head away from the effected ear. Apply a few drops of solution to the effected ear. Allow it to remain in the ear for a moment.
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6
Tilt head in the other direction, until the effected ear faces downward, allowing the solution to drain. Repeat with remaining solution.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Prevent water in the ear by using ear plugs when swimming and bathing.
Symptoms of swimmer's ear include redness, swelling, and pain in and around the ear canal. Pain may be especially severe when pressure is applied to the outer ear. Pus-like discharge also may be present. Individuals who experience these symptoms should discontinue self-care and consult a physician.
