Tilt the affected ear downward to help fluid drain out
Gently tug the earlobe in different directions while the head is tilted
Lie on your side with the affected ear facing down
Use a warm compress over the ear for 10 to 15 minutes
Chew, yawn, or swallow to help open the Eustachian tube
Try the Valsalva maneuver gently by pinching the nose, closing the mouth, and blowing softly
Use over-the-counter drying ear drops only if the eardrum is intact and there is no ear pain, drainage, or infection
Keep the ear dry and avoid swimming until the fluid clears
Avoid inserting cotton swabs, fingers, or other objects into the ear
Seek medical care if the fluid lasts more than a few days, or if there is pain, fever, hearing loss, dizziness, or discharge