Ear pain and water in the ear

Moisture left after bathing or swimming can soften the skin of the ear canal and make it sore. If water cannot drain because of earwax buildup, the ear may feel blocked, muffled or full. Irritated canal skin can become inflamed, while a cold or sinusitis can create pressure that feels like water is behind the eardrum. Middle-ear infection may cause deeper pain, fever or reduced hearing. A sensation of water does not show where the problem is, so an examination is useful when it does not clear.

Tilt the head gently to let visible water run out, then dry the outer ear with a towel. Keep the ear dry for now and avoid cotton buds, scratching, forceful blowing or home irrigation. Do not use drops if you have drainage, a known eardrum hole, ear tubes or previous ear surgery unless advised. Use only pain relief that is suitable for you and follow the label. Seek advice if fullness or pain continues after the moisture should have drained.

Book an assessment for pain lasting beyond a short period, repeated episodes, discharge, hearing loss or fever. Seek urgent care for severe pain, swelling behind or around the ear, facial weakness, severe dizziness, or feeling seriously unwell. A clinician can remove obstructing wax safely and check for canal or middle-ear inflammation.

Is water trapped in the canal, or does the eardrum look inflamed? Could wax be blocking the ear? What should I use for pain, and when can I return to swimming?