What can I do to treat fluid in my ear?

I have fluid in my ear and would like to know the best way to treat it.

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If you have fluid in your ear but have no fever and can still hear fairly well, you can try taking antihistamines for a few days to help dry out the fluid. If you still have fluid, can't hear well, or have a fever, see your doctor.

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Answer by drJ (841)

If the fluid is from an external source (swimming or showering) then removing the water will alleviate the discomfort. You can use a hair dryer on a low warm setting, or pour a capful of rubbing alcohol into the ear and then allow gravity to drain it back out.

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Reply by elsewhen (627):
I used to be on a swim team, and we would regularly have water in our ears... it became so common, that we just got used to it and never really did anything about it. You can always tell the beginning swimmers because they stand on the deck shaking their heads trying to get a few drops of the water out. add a comment

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Answer by Dana46 (2345)

First use a cotton swab to remove any liquid that is not actually in your ear canal. Do not stick the cotton swab in deeply, you could damage your hearing. Then apply a solution of hydrogen peroxide and rubbing alcohol into the ear canal.

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