Introduction
Middle ear fluid buildup or otitis media with effusion is a common problem that can cause significant discomfort and hearing difficulties. The fluid buildup often occurs as a result of blockage of the Eustachian tube due to allergies, colds, infections, and even blockages caused by inflammation. This type of ear infection is particularly common amongst children. Fortunately, there are natural remedies that you can use to drain fluid from your middle ear at home. Before opting for surgery or medication, try out these natural remedies that are safe and effective.
Natural remedies for draining fluid from middle ear
There are various natural remedies that you can use to help drain the fluid from your middle ear. These include:
Saltwater
Saltwater is an effective remedy that can help drain fluid from your middle ear. The salt helps to draw out the fluid, which is then expelled through the Eustachian tube.
– In a clean bowl or glass, mix a quarter-teaspoon of salt with warm water
– Use a dropper to apply the saltwater directly into your affected ear while tilting your head to the side
– Let the solution sit in your ear for several minutes while maintaining the head’s tilt
– Drain the saltwater out by tilting the head in the opposite direction
Garlic
Garlic is known for its antibacterial properties and can be quite useful in treating fluid buildup in the middle ear.
– Crush a fresh garlic clove and heat it up with olive oil or sesame oil for a few minutes
– Let the mixture cool down
– Strain the mixture and use a dropper to put several drops into your ear
– Tilt the affected ear upwards and massage it gently to help the garlic oil seep into your ear
– Let the oil sit for a few minutes before tilting your head in the opposite direction to drain it out
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is effective in breaking down the fluid and reducing inflammation.
– Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water
– Soak a cotton ball in the mixture and squeeze it out
– Place the soaked cotton ball on the affected ear for about five minutes
– Remove the cotton ball and lay on the opposite side to drain out the solution
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is an essential oil with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help with fluids in the middle ear.
– Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a few drops of a carrier oil like coconut oil
– Use a dropper to apply the mixture into your ear
– Allow it to sit for a few minutes
– Tilt your head in the opposite direction to drain the mixture out
Ear exercises to clear fluid from middle ear
Certain exercises can help you clear fluid in your middle ear. Here are a few exercises that you can try.
Jaw movements
Jaw movements can help loosen congestion in your ear.
– Open and close your mouth repeatedly
– Move your jaw from side to side while opening and closing your mouth
– Hold a pencil or a pen between your teeth and move your jaw up and down and side to side
Yawnings
Yawning helps contract and relax the muscles that open the Eustachian tube, making it easier to drain fluid from the ear.
– Look up at the ceiling and do slow and deep yawns
– Keep your mouth closed and inhale and exhale through your nose ten times quickly
Head tilts
Head tilts can help shift fluids from the middle ear to the back of your throat.
– Tilt your head to the side of the affected ear
– Place the palm of your hand on the side of your head and apply some pressure
– Stay in this position for thirty seconds before returning to an upright position
– Repeat several times
Warm compression for ear fluid
Warm compression can help soothe the affected area, promote blood flow, and encourage drainage of fluid.
– Soak a clean cloth in warm water
– Wring the water out of the cloth and apply it to the affected ear
– Leave the cloth on your ear for ten to fifteen minutes
– Repeat the process several times daily
Avoid triggers that may cause middle ear fluid
Certain triggers can lead to fluid buildup in the middle ear. Avoiding these triggers can help prevent future fluid buildup.
Tobacco
Smoking can irritate the Eustachian tubes, making it difficult for fluids to drain.
Alcohol
Alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration, which can make the fluid in the middle ear thicker and more challenging to drain.
Pressure Equalizing Techniques
Pressure equalizing techniques can help relieve pressure and encourage fluid drainage.
The Toynbee maneuver
The Toynbee maneuver is where you swallow while pinching your nose to trap air in the Eustachian tubes, helping to open them and drain the fluid in the middle ear.
Valasalva maneuver
The Valsalva maneuver involves closing your mouth and nose and gently blowing out to relieve pressure in the middle ear.
Seek professional assistance
Suppose home remedies and exercises fail to provide relief. In that case, you should seek medical intervention to prevent further issues. Medical procedures such as ear draining or pressure-equalizing tubes (PET) surgically inserted into your ears can provide relief.
Conclusion
Ear fluid buildup can be uncomfortable and cause hearing difficulties. This condition can be treated at home using natural remedies, exercises, and warm compression. Avoiding triggers and pressure equalizing techniques can also help. Seek medical advice if home remedies fail, and the problem is causing significant discomfort. Share your experiences and comments in the section below.
