Ear pain after water in your ear: what to know

Water can remain in the outer ear canal and soften its skin. Rubbing, scratching or using cotton buds may then cause small areas of irritation. Pain that increases when you touch the outer ear or move the jaw can fit with inflammation of the ear canal. A blocked feeling may also reflect earwax that has swollen after becoming wet; see Ear Wax Removal for more information.

A cold, sinus problem or throat infection can cause pain felt in the ear even when water was not the main cause. Middle Ear Infection can cause deeper pain, pressure or reduced hearing. An Earache overview can help you describe the pattern.

Tilt your head with the affected ear facing down and gently dry the outside. Keep the ear dry until the discomfort settles: avoid swimming and do not put oil, drops or objects into the canal unless a clinician recommends them. A warm cloth held against the ear may be soothing. Follow the label directions for any suitable pain medicine, taking account of your age, pregnancy, allergies and other medicines.

Arrange a medical review if pain continues, hearing becomes muffled, or fluid appears. Do not try to remove suspected wax with a cotton bud; a clinician can check the eardrum before recommending treatment.

Seek urgent medical help for severe or rapidly worsening pain, swelling behind the ear, new facial weakness, marked dizziness, or a high temperature with feeling very unwell. Prompt assessment is also sensible for pus, blood, repeated vomiting or significant hearing loss. People with diabetes or reduced immunity should seek advice sooner because ear-canal infections can become more serious.

Ask whether the pain is coming from the ear canal, eardrum or nearby throat and sinuses; whether the eardrum is intact; and whether you need drops, examination for wax, or Antibiotic Treatment.