Fluid can accumulate in the ear on account of a cold. Respiratory tract infections can also result in a buildup of fluid in the ear, which in turn can lead to an ear infection. The fluid tends to collect in the middle ear, behind the ear drum. The tube that connects the middle ear and the throat is known as the Eustachian tube. When this tube gets blocked, the accumulated fluid is unable to drain out by itself. This results in pressure, pain and discomfort which last until the fluid is eliminated from the ear. There may also be mild hearing loss and if left untreated, severe pain can also occur as the fluid pushes against the ear drum. In some cases, water can collect in the ear even while showering or swimming.
If the fluid is allowed to remain in the ear, a severe ear infection may result, as bacteria find this to be an ideal ground for breeding. Inflammation of the ear drum, ear ache and fever may result in this case. Cysts may also develop as a result of the fluid buildup. The recommended methods of draining the fluid from the ears are waiting for it to clear up on its own, intake of antibiotics and use of tubes remove the water from the ear. The period of time for which the fluid has remained in the ear and the seriousness of the symptoms determines which method must be used. There are several ways by which you can remove the fluid from your ear. However, if the symptoms are severe, it is advisable to consult a doctor at the earliest.
One way by which fluid can be removed from the ear is add a few drops of water to the affected ear with the help of a dropper. After a second or two, turn your head around quickly so the affected ear faces down. Repeat this again until all the fluid has drained out. Sleeping with the affected ear facing down on the pillow may also help to ease the fluid out due to the force of gravity. A good way to dry up the accumulated water in the ear is to dry the ear using a blow dryer. Use a low setting and ensure that you don’t hold the dryer too close to the ear. A warm compress such as a hot towel placed over the ear also helps to draw the fluid out. You can also add a few drops of onion juice or apple cider vinegar to the ear using a dropper. This is known to enable fluid drainage from the ear.
answered by M W