Whether you’ve been swimming at Lake Pat Cleburne, enjoying a few laps at the community pool or rinsing off after a hot summer day, getting water trapped in your ears is a common and uncomfortable experience. That clogged, muffled sensation can be frustrating, and if the water doesn’t drain properly, it can even lead to infection.
Understanding how to remove water from your ears and prevent it from getting trapped in the first place can help you enjoy the season safely.
How to Remove Water from Your Ears
If you feel water stuck in your ear after swimming or bathing, try the following steps:
- Tilt your head and tug your earlobe. Gently tilt your head toward the affected side and pull your earlobe in different directions to encourage water drainage.
- Use a blow dryer on a low setting. Set a hair dryer to its lowest and coolest setting and hold it at least 12 inches from your ear. Carefully direct cool air toward the ear to help clear the trapped moisture. Avoid using high heat or placing the dryer too close to prevent irritation or hearing damage.
- Gently dry the outer ear. After swimming or showering, use a soft towel to carefully dry the outer part of your ears. Do not insert cotton swabs or other objects into the ear canal, as they can push water further in or cause injury.
How Can Trapped Water Cause Infection?
Excess moisture in the ear creates an ideal environment for bacteria to grow, especially if the water comes from lakes, rivers or other untreated sources. When bacteria multiply in the ear canal, it can lead to swimmer’s ear, an infection of the outer ear.
Symptoms of swimmer’s ear include itching or discomfort in the ear canal, redness or swelling around the outer ear, a feeling of fullness or muffled hearing and fluid drainage. In more advanced cases, symptoms may include fever, increased pain or swelling of nearby lymph nodes. Prompt treatment is important to prevent complications.
How To Prevent Water From Getting Trapped
Prevention is the best approach when it comes to water-related ear issues. Consider the following tips:
- Use waterproof earplugs while swimming, especially if you swim frequently or in natural bodies of water. Custom-molded plugs provide a secure, comfortable fit and excellent protection.
- Avoid swimming in untreated or questionable water sources to reduce the risk of bacteria entering the ear.
- Consult your ENT or hearing specialist if you’ve had previous ear infections or surgery. You may need special precautions when around water.
Protect Your Ears This Summer
While summer is a time for fun and outdoor activities, it’s also important to care for your hearing health. If you experience recurring ear discomfort, muffled hearing after swimming or signs of infection, don’t wait to seek professional care.
To learn more about protecting your ears this season or to schedule a hearing evaluation, contact Benke Ear Nose & Throat Clinic today.