Tilt your head toward the affected ear and gently tug your earlobe
Lie on your side with the affected ear facing down
Shake your head gently
Create a vacuum by cupping your palm over the ear and pressing gently
Yawn or chew gum
Use a warm compress against the ear for a few minutes
Dry the outer ear with a towel
Use a few drops of rubbing alcohol or a commercial ear-drying drop if safe for you
Use a hair dryer on the lowest setting, held at a safe distance
Avoid inserting cotton swabs, fingers, or other objects into the ear
Seek medical care if pain, drainage, hearing loss, dizziness, or symptoms last more than 1 to 2 days