How Can I Dry the Fluid Behind My Ear Canal?

Ears are pretty well designed. Normally, between their shape and the function of your ear's natural wax, water doesn't get trapped inside, but drains out. Even when fluid is trapped inside the ear canal, it most often dries up on its own. But when it doesn't, or when it affects people who are prone to ear infections, a few techniques may help eradicate the fluid. Fluid in the ears can contribute to hearing loss if left untreated. If the problem is persistent, see a specialist about your condition.

Remedies for Drying Out Ear Canals

• The simplest remedy is to add a few drops of rubbing alcohol to your ear. Let the drops work their way inside. You can gently massage the ear to facilitate this. Then tilt your ear to let it drain. Rubbing alcohol not only aids in drying water, it breaks up water molecules, making it easier for the water to drain.
  Another option is to place a few drops of garlic juice in your ear. Using a hair dryer, blow dry the ear from approximately 1 foot away from your head. This dries up the water trapped in the Eustachian tube. Garlic is additionally helpful because it has antibiotic properties. Tea tree oil is another option.
  You can also try a heat compress. Simply lay a heated towel over the affected ear for a brief period. Then lie on your side so the fluid can drain. To heat the towel, dampen it and microwave it. Make sure it is hot, but not scaldingly so.
  Onion juice is another remedy for drying out fluid in the ear. Grate an onion to extract its juice. Place a few drops of juice into your ear then lie on your side so the trapped fluids can drain. You may have to repeat this process. Or instead of onion juice, use apple cider vinegar or olive oil.
  Using equal quantities, mix rubbing alcohol and vinegar, both of which have antiseptic qualities. Drip in two to three drops in the affected ear. The alcohol will help evaporate the water while vinegar kills any developing bacteria. Using a few drops of hydrogen peroxide is another option.
  If your ears are aching due to the fluid and pressure, make a compress with warmed salt. Gently dab the compress against your ear to reduce pain.

Additonal Considerations

• Because blocked ear canals can breed bacteria, you don't want to allow this condition to persist. Since an infection is a possibility, increasing your intake of vitamin C and other immune boosting herbs and minerals (such as zinc) may help stave off an infection. Avoid areas where people are smoking, as smoke can block the Eustachian tube.