Tilt your head to the side to help water drain out
Gently pull the earlobe in different directions to encourage drainage
Use a warm compress on the affected ear for 10 to 15 minutes
Lie on your side with the painful ear facing down
Dry the outer ear with a clean towel
Use a hair dryer on the lowest, coolest setting from a safe distance
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if needed
Avoid inserting cotton swabs, fingers, or other objects into the ear
Avoid swimming again until the pain is gone
Use over-the-counter drying ear drops only if you do not have a perforated eardrum, ear tubes, or ear infection symptoms
Seek medical care if pain is severe, lasts more than a day or two, or comes with fever, drainage, hearing loss, or swelling