Swimming is a great way to stay active and have fun, but one of the most annoying things that can happen after a swim is getting water stuck in your ears. It can be uncomfortable, cause muffled hearing, and even lead to infections. Fortunately, there are several tips to remove water from your ears after swimming. In this article, we’ll discuss five effective methods to help you get rid of that water in your ears.
Here are 5 Tips to Remove Water From Your Ears After Swimming:
Method 1: Tilt Your Head and Pull Your Earlobe
The first and most common tip to remove water from your ears after swimming is to tilt your head to the side and pull your earlobe gently. This technique works by using gravity to pull the water out of your ear canal.
To use this method, follow these steps:
- Tilt your head to the side with the affected ear facing downwards.
- Use your hand to gently pull your earlobe down and away from your head. This will help straighten out the ear canal.
- Stay in this position for a few seconds, then tilt your head back to the upright position.
- Repeat the process if necessary, until the water drains out of your ear.
Method 2: Create a Vacuum
Another effective tip to remove water from your ears is to create a vacuum by using your hand. This technique involves creating suction to pull the water out of your ear.
To use this method, follow these steps:
- Cup your hand and press it tightly against your ear.
- Press and release the hand to create a vacuum.
- Tilt your head to the side with the affected ear facing downwards.
- Stay in this position for a few seconds, then tilt your head back to the upright position.
- Repeat the process if necessary, until the water drains out of your ear.
Method 3: Use Heat
Using heat is another effective tip to remove water from your ears. This technique works by evaporating the water trapped in your ear canal.
To use this method, follow these steps:
- Soak a clean towel in hot water and wring it out until it’s damp.
- Place the towel on the affected ear and hold it there for 30 seconds.
- Remove the towel and tilt your head to the side with the affected ear facing downwards.
- Stay in this position for a few seconds, then tilt your head back to the upright position.
- Repeat the process if necessary, until the water drains out of your ear.
Method 4: Use Gravity
Using gravity is another tip to remove water from your ears. This method works by allowing gravity to pull the water out of your ear canal.
To use this method, follow these steps:
- Lie on your side with the affected ear facing downwards.
- Stay in this position for a few minutes, allowing the water to drain out of your ear.
- Sit up and tilt your head to the side with the affected ear facing downwards.
- Stay in this position for a few seconds, then tilt your head back to the upright position.
- Repeat the process if necessary, until the water drains out of your ear.
Method 5: Use Over-the-Counter Ear Drops
If the above methods do not work, you can try using over-the-counter ear drops. These drops help to break up the wax and dry the ear canal, allowing the water to drain out more easily.
To use this method, follow these steps:
- Lie on your side with the affected ear facing upwards.
- Put a few drops of the ear drops into your ear canal.
- Stay in this position for a few minutes to allow the ear drops to work.
- Tilt your head to the side with the affected ear facing downwards.
- Stay in this position for a few seconds, then tilt your head back to the upright position.
- Repeat the process if necessary, until the water drains out of your ear.
It’s important to note that you should always follow the instructions on the packaging of the ear drops and never use them if you have an ear infection or ear tubes.
Additional Precautions and Tips to Remove Water From Your Ears:
While these are effective tips to remove water from your ears after swimming, it’s important to take precautions to prevent water from getting into your ears in the first place.
Here are some additional tips to remove water from your ears:
1. Wear earplugs:
Wearing earplugs while swimming can help prevent water from entering your ears. There are several types of earplugs available, including custom-fitted ones that are made specifically for your ears.
2. Dry your ears thoroughly:
After swimming, use a towel or hairdryer on the low heat setting to dry your ears thoroughly. Tilt your head to the side and gently tug on your earlobe to help remove any excess water.
3. Avoid using cotton swabs:
Inserting cotton swabs or any other objects into your ears can push the water further into your ear canal and even cause damage. It’s best to avoid using cotton swabs and instead use a towel or tissue to dry your ears.
4. Avoid submerging your head:
If you’re prone to getting water in your ears, try to avoid submerging your head completely underwater while swimming. Instead, keep your head above the water or wear a swim cap.
5. Seek medical attention if necessary:
If you experience severe pain, discharge, or other symptoms after trying these methods, it’s important to seek medical attention. You may have an infection or other underlying condition that needs to be treated.
BOTTOM LINE
Getting water stuck in your ears after swimming can be uncomfortable and even lead to infections if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several effective tips to remove water from your ears, including tilting your head, creating a vacuum, using heat, using gravity, and using over-the-counter ear drops. By taking precautions to prevent water from getting into your ears and using these methods to remove water when it does, you can enjoy swimming without any discomfort or complications. If you are starting to learn to swim this article ‘5 Tips to Remove Water From Your Ears After Swimming’ is truly important to you.
Also Read: 10 Health Benefits of Cold-water Swimming
