Why Is Water Stuck in My Ear?

No matter your age, most of us are familiar with the sensation of water stuck in the ear. Though uncomfortable, it's common among children and adults, especially during the summer when swimming and other water-related activities are in high demand.

If ignored, water trapped in the ear canal can become a serious problem—from mild irritation to severe pain and even infection.

In this article, we'll delve into why water gets stuck in the ear (focusing on a few obvious and not-so-obvious reasons) and share tips and techniques to help you find fast relief.

If you experience water trapped in your ears from swimming or bathing, try these helpful home remedies.

• Create a mixture of equal parts rubbing alcohol and vinegar and put a few drops into the affected ear. Tilt your head to the side and let the solution sit for a few minutes before draining it.
  
• Talk to a provider or pharmacist about recommended over-the-counter ear drops designed to remove water from the ear. You can also ask if it's safe to use hydrogen peroxide to remove any ear wax buildup that may be preventing water from draining. 
  

If you experience water in the ear from swimming or bathing, you may be able to find relief with a few natural techniques:

• Grasp the affected earlobe gently with your thumb and index finger, pulling it downward and then upward. Repeat this motion several times to help dislodge any trapped water in the ear canal.
  
• Chew gum or yawn to help open up the Eustachian tube and allow the trapped water to drain out naturally.
• Apply a warm compress to the affected ear for a few minutes to help open up the Eustachian tube and promote drainage.
• Tilt your head to the affected side and gently dry the outer ear with a soft cloth.

Just remember to never stick anything in your ear, such as Q-tips®, to remove water, as this can push it further into the ear canal and potentially cause damage.