Have Any Tips on How to Drain Fluid in Ear After Ear Infection?

Hi ,I am a pediatric nurse so I think I can answer your question. The answer is simple -you do not need to drain the fluid and trying to do so may further hurt your ear. As bothersome as it may feel it will go away on its own but you may want to try an antihistamine like benedryl or Zyrtec otc. We usually suggest giving a little at bedtime for our children who have persistant serous otitis media (fluid in ear canals). It may take a few days to see a dramatic change but it does work. See your doctor if the problem persists or worsens or if the ear becomes tender to the touch. This could mean an infection in the external canal associated commonly with fluid in the ears. Hope this helps.

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Hi I am a pediatric nurse so I think I can answer your question. The answer is simple you do not need to drain the fluid and trying to do so may further hurt your ear as bothersome as it may feel it will go away on it own but you may want to try a antihistamine like benedryl or Zyrtec otc. We usually suggest giving a little at bedtime for our children who have persistant serous otitis media (fluid in ear canals). It may take a few days to see a dramatic change but it does work.

From what I've read, Benadryl has not been found to be useful. Basically, if it's associated with an infection, it should clear up on its own within a month or so. (All the docs say to give it at least a month, then another month, ...) There is no way to speed the process. But, since it's you and not your little one, go ahead and try the Benadryl. It certainly can't hurt to try it.

You want to keep the fluid thinned out much as possible so it can drain.
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Stay away from decongestants - they make fluid thicker and harder to drain.
An expectorant might help (Robitussin or Mucinex).
Sleep with your ear on a heating pad on low.
Rinsing your nose/sinuses with a neti pot and warm saline can help, too.

Take an expectorant (Mucinex) and use medicated nosedrops (Afrin) for a day or two. Voila: drainage!
This is for an adult though! If you are asking for a child, I would ask the pediatrician about dosing.
Good luck.