How to Remove Fluid in Ears

Water or fluid in the ears can be annoying, but you don't have to live with it. While fluid will usually drain out on its own, you can help the process along with a few simple tricks. Empty the fluids by using simple maneuvers that you can do yourself. Alternatively, dry up the fluid with ear drops or a hairdryer. If you suspect you have an infection, however, go to the doctor for treatment instead.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Drying Out Ears

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    Clean your ears out with hydrogen peroxide. Fill half of an ear dropper with hydrogen peroxide. Turn your head so that the affected ear is on top. Drop the hydrogen peroxide into the ear. Once the crackling noise stops (usually within 5 minutes), tilt your head so that your affected ear faces down. Tug on the earlobe to help the ear drain.[1]

    Tip: Hydrogen peroxide can help the fluids evaporate while cleaning out any ear wax that could be trapping the fluids.

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    Apply ear drying drops to your ears. You can buy these over-the-counter at pharmacies and grocery stores. The solution will usually come with an ear dropper, but they are typically available for purchase at pharmacies if not. Alternatively, you can make your own drying drops with equal parts white vinegar and isopropyl alcohol.[2]

    How to Use Ear Drops

    Get them to room temperature: Ear drops that are too hot or too cold can lead to dizziness. Put your ear drops in your pants pocket for 30 minutes and walk around to get them to the right temperature.

    Read the instructions: Always look over the instructions on the package, including any side effects that may occur.

    Check the expiration date: Never use drops that are expired.

    Ask a friend to help: It’s difficult to put ear drops in your own ear, so ask someone to help you.

    For adults and teens: Lay your head on a towel with your affected ear facing up. Have your friend gently pull your earlobe up and out, and then administer the correct number of drops into the ear canal. Push on the ear flap to send the liquid into the ear, and then wait for 1-2 minutes.

    For children: Have the child lay their head on a towel with their affected ear facing up. Gently pull the child’s earlobe out and down to straighten the auditory tube, and administer the right amount of drops. Push on the flap of the ear and wait for 2-3 minutes.

    If you have fluid in both ears: Wait about five minutes or plug the first ear with a cotton ball before starting on the second ear.[3]

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    Blow your ear with a hairdryer. Turn the hairdryer onto its lowest heat and fan setting. Set the blow-dryer about 6 inches (15 cm) from your ear. Let the cool air blow into your ear. The air can help dry up some of the fluid that is caught in the ear.[4]
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    Dry your outer ears with a towel after swimming and showering.
    Don’t put the towel inside of your ear.
    [5] Just wipe off the water on the outside to prevent more fluid from building up in your ears.[6]
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    Avoid using cotton swabs or tissues in your ears.[7] These can irritate and scratch your ears, increasing your chances of getting an infection. Instead, if you can’t dislodge the water on your own, see a doctor for help.[8]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Dislodging Fluid

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    Tug the outside of your ear while tilting your head. Point your affected ear down to the ground. Tug on your earlobe and the outer cartilage in different directions to open up your ear. You may feel the fluid drain out. Repeat if needed on the other ear.[9]
    • This is a good way to get rid of water after swimming or a shower.
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    Create a vacuum with your hand to release the fluid. Place the palm of your hand tightly over your ear. Press down a few times before removing your hand. Tilt your ear down so that the water can drain out.[10]
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    Relieve the pressure with a gentle Valsalva maneuver. Take a breath and hold it. Plug your nose with 2 fingers, and force air up the Eustachian tubes in your ears by blowing.
    You should feel a pop if it works.
    Tilt your head downward, with the affected ear facing toward the ground to let the fluid drain out.[11]
    • Do not do this if you think you have an ear infection.
    • Be gentle as you blow. If you blow too hard, you may cause a nosebleed.
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    Pinch your nose and yawn to force the fluid down your throat. Hold your nostrils closed with your fingers. Take a few deep yawns in a row. This may cause the fluid to slide back down your throat, removing it from your ears.[12]
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    Lie down with your affected ear turned downward. Rest on your side, with the affected ear down against a towel, pillow, or cloth. After a few minutes, the ear may start to drain. You can even take a nap or try this overnight as you sleep.[13]
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    6
    Chew on gum or food. Chewing often opens up the Eustachian tubes.
    Tilt your head as you chew
    to encourage fluid to drain from your ears. If you don’t have any gum or food on you, try just pretending to chew.[14]
    • You can also try sucking on a hard candy to get the same effect.
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    Loosen the fluid with steam treatment. Sometimes, a long, hot shower is enough to loosen the fluid in your ear. However, if not, a simple steam treatment may thin the fluid, making it easier to drain. Pour hot water into a bowl. Lean over the bowl and drape a towel over your head. Inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes. Then tilt your affected ear to the side to let the fluid drain out.[15]

    At-Home Steam Treatment
    Fill a bowl with hot, steaming water. Add a few drops of anti-inflammatory oils, like chamomile or tea tree, if desired. Drape a towel over your head and lean over the bowl, inhaling the steam for 5-10 minutes. Then, tilt your affected ear to the side and let the fluid drain out into the bowl.
    Be careful: Always exercise caution with steam, as it can get very hot. Try placing your hand over the steam to see if it's a comfortable temperature before putting your face near it.[16]

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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Treating Medical Causes

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    Take a decongestant if you have a sinus infection or cold. The decongestant will allow your ears to drain naturally. Take the medication according to the instructions on the label. You can use an over-the-counter decongestant, such as Sudafed or Afrin, in pill or spray form.[17]

    Decongestants: Not for Everyone
    Unfortunately, decongestants aren’t safe for certain groups of people. If you or a loved one falls into one of these categories and is in need of a decongestant, consult with a doctor before moving forward.
    Pregnant and breastfeeding women: For many decongestants, there is no established risk for pregnant/breastfeeding women with short-term use.[18] However, not all decongestants are created equal. Ask your doctor about the decongestant that is right for you.
    People taking other medications: It’s always possible that a decongestant will interact with another medication in a harmful way.
    Diabetics: Decongestants tend to lead to increases in blood sugar.
    People with high blood pressure: Decongestants work by narrowing blood vessels and reducing swelling in the nose, but this can affect other blood vessels and lead to a spike in blood pressure. Opt for a cold medication that is designed for people who have high blood pressure instead.[19]
    People with hypo or hyperthyroidism: Pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in many common decongestants, can worsen many symptoms of both hypo and hyperthyroidism.[20]
    People with glaucoma: Decongestants generally have little effect on open-angle glaucoma, which is more common. People with closed-angle glaucoma, however, should exercise caution, because decongestants can lead to pupil dilation and angle closure.

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    Visit your doctor if your ears don’t clear up after 3-4 days.[21] Your doctor may prescribe a cortisone pill, such as Prednisone or Medrol. Take this medication according to your doctor’s instructions. Your ears will usually clear up after 3-4 days.[22]
    • This pill will decrease inflammation in your Eustachian Tubes in your ears so that fluid can drain naturally.
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    Take antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor. Antibiotics are especially important for children, although adults may use them too. The antibiotics will treat any current infection and prevent new ones from developing.[23]
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    Have a doctor check for growths if fluid appears in 1 ear without a cold. If you suddenly have unexplained fluid in only 1 of your ears, it can be a symptom of a growth, such as a benign tumor or cancer. Ask your doctor for a referral to an
    Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctor.
    The ENT will perform a cancer screening.[24]
    • The ENT will begin with a visual examination of your ear and blood tests. If they think you have a growth in your ear, they will give you a local anesthetic and take a sample of the tissue for testing. MRI scans may also be used.[25]
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    Opt for surgery if the fluid can't be removed any other way. Since it can take a while for the ear to drain completely, they may place a tube in your ear. When your ears have healed, your doctor will remove the tube at their office. They will also follow up with you occasionally to make sure your ears are in good condition after the surgery.[26]
    • Children may need the tubes in their ears for between 4 and 6 months. Adults may only need the tubes for 4-6 weeks.
    • The first surgery will require anesthesia at a hospital as an outpatient procedure. Tubes often fall out on their own, or they can be removed without the use of anesthesia at your doctor's office.
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Expert Q&A
Did you know you can get expert answers for this article? Unlock expert answers by supporting wikiHow

  • Question
    How can I unclog my ears at home?
    Payam Daneshrad, MD
    Payam Daneshrad, MD
    Board Certified Otolaryngologist
    Dr. Payam Daneshrad is a board certified Otolaryngologist, a board eligible Facial Plastic Surgeon, and the Owner and Director of Daneshrad Clinic in Los Angeles, California. With over 19 years of experience, Dr. Daneshrad specializes in adult and pediatric Otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, packing-less nasal surgery, minimally invasive sinus surgery, and snoring treatment. He also uses the newest surgical ENT techniques for tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, thyroidectomy, and parathyroidectomy. Dr. Daneshrad graduated with a BS and the highest honors from the University of California, Berkeley. He earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Tulane University School of Medicine, where he was accepted into the AOA, the medical honor's society, and the Tulane University School of Public Health. Dr. Daneshrad received his medical training from the University of Southern California, where he currently serves as an Associate Clinical Professor. Dr. Daneshrad is the Otolaryngologist and Facial Plastic Surgeon for the Los Angeles Sparks and the athletic teams of Loyola Marymount University.
    Payam Daneshrad, MD
    Payam Daneshrad, MD
    Board Certified Otolaryngologist
    Expert Answer

    Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

    Ear wax is a natural part of every human being’s ear canal, and it will usually move its way out of the ear canal on its own. If necessary, over the counter wax dissolving agents like Debrox can be used to clean the ears. Avoid using Q-tips, as these disrupt the natural movement of ear wax out of the ear canal that your body does on its own.
  • Question
    How do I get rid of a grinding noise in my right ear?
    Marsha Durkin, RN
    Marsha Durkin, RN
    Registered Nurse
    Marsha Durkin is a Registered Nurse and Laboratory Information Specialist for Mercy Hospital and Medical Center in Illinois. She received her Associates Degree in Nursing from Olney Central College in 1987.
    Marsha Durkin, RN
    Marsha Durkin, RN
    Registered Nurse
    Expert Answer

    Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

    See your doctor so she or he can look in your ear and see what is going on.
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References

  1. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/best-ways-to-steer-clear-of-swimmers-ear-this-summer/
  2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YRUnWZkTgw&feature=youtu.be&t=15
  3. ↑ https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-use-ear-drops-correctly-1192039
  4. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/best-ways-to-steer-clear-of-swimmers-ear-this-summer/
  5. ↑ Payam Daneshrad, MD. Board Certified Otolaryngologist. Expert Interview. 30 September 2020.
  6. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/pdf/swimming/resources/pseudomonas-factsheet_swimmers_ear.pdf
  7. ↑ Payam Daneshrad, MD. Board Certified Otolaryngologist. Expert Interview. 30 September 2020.
  8. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/best-ways-to-steer-clear-of-swimmers-ear-this-summer/
  9. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/pdf/swimming/resources/pseudomonas-factsheet_swimmers_ear.pdf
  1. ↑ https://myswimpro.com/blog/2016/10/07/how-to-remove-water-from-your-ears-after-swimming/
  2. ↑ http://www.foodpyramid.com/conditions-disorders/ear-congestion-causes-and-treatment-for-congested-ears-10701/
  3. ↑ http://www.foodpyramid.com/conditions-disorders/ear-congestion-causes-and-treatment-for-congested-ears-10701/
  4. ↑ http://www.healthguidance.org/entry/12519/1/How-to-Get-Water-Out-of-Your-Ear.html
  5. ↑ http://www.foodpyramid.com/conditions-disorders/ear-congestion-causes-and-treatment-for-congested-ears-10701/
  6. ↑ https://myswimpro.com/blog/2016/10/07/how-to-remove-water-from-your-ears-after-swimming/
  7. ↑ https://myswimpro.com/blog/2016/10/07/how-to-remove-water-from-your-ears-after-swimming/
  8. ↑ http://www.earsurgery.org/conditions/serous-otitis-media-fluid-in-the-middle-ear/
  9. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2377219/
  10. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/expert-answers/high-blood-pressure/faq-20058281
  11. ↑ https://www.verywellhealth.com/cough-cold-decongestants-for-thyroid-patients-3233143
  12. ↑ Payam Daneshrad, MD. Board Certified Otolaryngologist. Expert Interview. 30 September 2020.
  13. ↑ http://www.earsurgery.org/conditions/serous-otitis-media-fluid-in-the-middle-ear/
  14. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007010.htm
  15. ↑ http://www.earsurgery.org/conditions/serous-otitis-media-fluid-in-the-middle-ear/
  16. ↑ http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/head-neck-cancer/cancer-of-the-ear/middle-inner-about
  17. ↑ http://www.earsurgery.org/conditions/serous-otitis-media-fluid-in-the-middle-ear/
  18. ↑ Payam Daneshrad, MD. Board Certified Otolaryngologist. Expert Interview. 30 September 2020.
  19. ↑ Payam Daneshrad, MD. Board Certified Otolaryngologist. Expert Interview. 30 September 2020.

About This Article

Payam Daneshrad, MD
Co-authored by:
Payam Daneshrad, MD
Board Certified Otolaryngologist
This article was co-authored by Payam Daneshrad, MD. Dr. Payam Daneshrad is a board certified Otolaryngologist, a board eligible Facial Plastic Surgeon, and the Owner and Director of Daneshrad Clinic in Los Angeles, California. With over 19 years of experience, Dr. Daneshrad specializes in adult and pediatric Otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, packing-less nasal surgery, minimally invasive sinus surgery, and snoring treatment. He also uses the newest surgical ENT techniques for tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, thyroidectomy, and parathyroidectomy. Dr. Daneshrad graduated with a BS and the highest honors from the University of California, Berkeley. He earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Tulane University School of Medicine, where he was accepted into the AOA, the medical honor's society, and the Tulane University School of Public Health. Dr. Daneshrad received his medical training from the University of Southern California, where he currently serves as an Associate Clinical Professor. Dr. Daneshrad is the Otolaryngologist and Facial Plastic Surgeon for the Los Angeles Sparks and the athletic teams of Loyola Marymount University. This article has been viewed 3,529,832 times.
17 votes - 61%
Co-authors: 26
Updated: December 29, 2020
Views: 3,529,832
Categories: Ear Health | Ear Infections

Medical Disclaimer

The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.

Article SummaryX

If your ears are in pain, you should see a doctor because you may have an ear infection. However, if you just feel fluid, try dropping a few drops of hydrogen peroxide into your ear and leaving it until the crackling noise stops, which will help the fluid evaporate. You can also try lying down for a few minutes with your ear turned downward to help drain the fluid. If your ear is still bothering you, fill a bowl with hot water, lean over it with a towel over your head, and inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes to thin the fluid in your ear. For more tips from our Medical reviewer, including how to use ear drying drops, scroll down!

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