To get fluid out of your inner (middle) ear, you can try several effective home remedies that help open the Eustachian tube and promote drainage:

• Popping your ears: Yawn, chew, swallow, or perform the Valsalva maneuver by gently blowing while pinching your nose and keeping your mouth closed. This can open the Eustachian tube and release trapped fluid, often accompanied by a popping sensation

• Warm compress: Apply a warm compress over the affected ear to relax tissues and loosen congestion, which may help fluid drain

• Steam inhalation: Inhale steam from a bowl of hot water or a steam inhaler. The warmth and moisture can reduce swelling in the Eustachian tubes, facilitating fluid drainage

• Saltwater gargle: Gargling warm saltwater can reduce swelling in the throat and Eustachian tubes, promoting fluid drainage from the middle ear

• Ear drops: Use over-the-counter drying ear drops or a homemade solution of equal parts vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Put a few drops in the ear, let it sit for 30 seconds, then tilt your head to drain the fluid. Olive oil drops warmed to body temperature can also help repel water and soothe the ear

• Create a vacuum with your hand: Tilt your head to the side, cup your palm over your ear to create a seal, and push and pull your palm quickly to create suction that may draw fluid out

• Gravity and movement: Tilt your head sideways or lie down with the affected ear facing downward to let gravity help drain the fluid. Gently tug or jiggle your earlobe to encourage fluid to move out

• Blow dryer: On the lowest heat setting, hold a blow dryer about a foot away from your ear and blow warm air into it while gently pulling on your earlobe to help evaporate trapped fluid

Important: If you experience severe pain, hearing loss, discharge, or if fluid persists for more than a few weeks, seek medical attention as these could be signs of infection or other complications

. Avoid inserting cotton swabs or other objects into the ear canal, as this can cause injury or push fluid deeper

. These methods primarily address fluid in the middle ear or ear canal and are generally safe for minor cases. For persistent or severe symptoms, a healthcare provider can offer treatments such as prescription medications or professional drainage