Muffled hearing after swimming—often described as a "plugged" or "underwater" sensation—typically results from water trapped in the ear canal by surface tension or wax, but it can also signal an emerging infection.
The Gravity Tilt: Tilt your head to the side with the affected ear facing the shoulder. Gently tug on your earlobe to straighten the canal and let gravity do the work.
Treating Muffled Hearing After Swimming
The Sensation: A popping or bubbling sound, a feeling of "fullness," and a significant drop in volume in one ear. The Fix:
The Vacuum Method: Cup your palm over your ear to create a seal, then gently push in and out to create a light vacuum. muffled hearing after swimming patched
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: Pressure changes or fluid buildup can block the tubes that equalize pressure between your middle ear and throat.
Why It Feels Like Water in Your Ear—and What You Can Do About It Ear drops : Over-the-counter ear drops such as
, are designed to adhere over the outer ear before water contact. Hygienic & Convenient