What Are the Treatments for Water in the Inner Ear?

It's frustrating to have water stuck in your inner ear, which might also result in hearing blockage, dizziness and nausea . There are several ways to treat this problem.

How Water Gets into the Inner Ear

• Water sometimes gets into the inner ear through an infection, either viral or bacterial, that spreads from the middle ear to the ear's inner chamber. This could happen when a middle ear infection causes the eardrum to rupture so fluid is released to the inner ear, or it could happen as a result of swimmer's ear or even too much fluid trapped in an ear from taking a shower.

Sit and Wait

• According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, some people choose to let an inner ear infection run its course. This is not the safest option, since an inner ear infection is considered the most dangerous type. Consult a physician to determine the cause of the infection and to treat it accordingly.

Treat the Pain

• Patients who are very uncomfortable due to water in the ear symptoms might choose to treat the discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers until they have the opportunity to talk to a doctor, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. A doctor might prescribe antibiotics or even surgery, depending on the cause of the infection.

Antibiotic Treatment

• Doctors are very cautious about using antibiotics, since side effects could cause more damage. However, in extreme cases, they will prescribe antibiotics for persistent infections.

Surgery

• Consult with your doctor to devise a treatment plan for water in the inner ear. She or he may recommend surgery if infections recur.