It allows for quick healing and helps prevent water from entering the middle ear during the healing process. 4. When to See a Doctor Do not wait to see a healthcare provider if you experience: Hearing loss that lasts longer than 24–48 hours.
Tilt your head sideways against your shoulder. Cup your palm tightly over your ear, then rapidly push and release to create a gentle vacuum that sucks the water out.
The presence of water can disrupt the pressure balance in the ear, contributing to that "plugged" feeling. What to Do If You Have a Patched Eardrum muffled hearing after swimming patched
Mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and white vinegar. Apply 3 to 4 drops into your ear, wait 30 seconds, and tilt your head to let it drain. The alcohol helps evaporate the water, while the vinegar creates an acidic environment that inhibits bacterial growth. Do not use this method if you suspect a ruptured eardrum. What Safe Practices to Avoid
The mechanical movement of your jaw helps flex the muscles around the ear canal, which can break the surface tension of the trapped water bubble. What NOT to Do: The Dangers of Cotton Swabs It allows for quick healing and helps prevent
Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation.
If your muffled hearing is due to water-soaked earwax, forcing water out will not help. Instead, you need to soften the wax so it can drain. Over-the-counter drops containing carbamide peroxide can safely break down the blockage over a few days. 3. Professional Ear Flushing or Micro-Suction Tilt your head sideways against your shoulder
Do not use alcohol-vinegar drops or over-the-counter drying agents if you suspect a torn eardrum, have ear pain, or notice fluid drainage that looks like pus or blood. When Muffled Hearing Means Swimmer’s Ear
If water is trapped behind wax, the methods above won't work. You need to soften the wax.
“Doctor,” his mom said, reaching for her car keys.