Tilt your head to the side and gently pull the earlobe to help fluid drain
Lie on your side with the affected ear facing down
Use gravity by hopping lightly on one foot with the affected ear tilted downward
Create a gentle vacuum by cupping your palm over the ear and releasing it
Yawn, swallow, or chew gum to open the Eustachian tubes
Try the Valsalva maneuver gently by pinching your nose, closing your mouth, and blowing softly
Use a warm compress against the ear for a few minutes
Take a warm shower and let steam help loosen trapped fluid
Use over-the-counter drying ear drops if appropriate and if you do not have a perforated eardrum
Keep the ear dry and avoid putting cotton swabs or objects into the ear
Sleep with the affected ear facing downward
See a doctor if the fluid lasts more than a few days, or if you have pain, fever, hearing loss, dizziness, or drainage