Remedy for Water in the Ears

Water in your ears can be much more than a mere annoyance. Letting water remain in your ear can breed bacteria and lead to painful infections. That said, it's crucial that you expel the water as soon as possible. Remember, the quicker you tend to the problem, the more likely a simple solution will work.

Bouncing

• Bounce--the most simple remedy--directly after leaving the water. Stand on your right leg and tilt your head so your right ear is parallel with the ground. Hop ten times. If water has penetrated your outer ear, you should feel a release. Repeat for the opposite side.

Hair Dryer

• When you get home, if you still feel water in your ear, try using your hair dryer. Hold the hair dryer a few feet away, pointing at your wet ear. Put your dryer on a low setting to avoid burns. Again, the sooner you do this, the more likely it is to work.

Alcohol and Vinegar Solution

• Alcohol can evaporate water in your ear canal, and vinegar fights bacteria. Mix a solution of half alcohol and half vinegar. Fill a dropper with the mixture and put it in the affected ear. After five minutes, the water should dissolve. This is easiest if another person places the drops in your ear while you lie on the floor, with your affected ear facing up.

Over-the-Counter Drops

• Over-the-counter drops made of an acetic acid or alcohol solution is the strongest non-professional remedy you can try. Apply the drops in the same manner as the alcohol and vinegar. These work best if you have a history of problems involving water in your ears.

Medical Help

• If all else fails, see your doctor. Water sometimes travels too deeply for you to reach by normal means. In these cases, your doctor may prescribe medications such as antibiotics, steroids and solutions to dry your ear and ward off infection.