Shaking your head vigorously to remove water from your ears might seem like a quick fix, but it could potentially be harmful, especially in children. The inside of the ear is delicate, and while the presence of water in the ear canal can be uncomfortable, the method of removal needs to be gentle.
When water gets trapped in the ear canal, typically after swimming or bathing, it creates a plugged feeling and can even affect hearing. For children, whose structures are smaller and still developing, the urge to get rid of this water quickly can lead to aggressive head shaking. The danger in this action lies primarily in the possibility of causing injury to the brain or the structures of the ear itself.
The brain is protected by the skull, but it is suspended in cerebrospinal fluid which allows it to move slightly. When you shake your head forcefully, the brain moves within the skull, which can lead to bruising or tearing of the brain tissue and blood vessels. In children, whose neck muscles may not be fully developed, the force exerted by shaking their head can be enough to cause significant jarring or whiplash-like effects. The immature bones and softer tissues increase the risk of a more serious injury.
Furthermore, the technique does not effectively remove water and can push it further into the ear canal, potentially leading to infections like swimmer’s ear. Instead of shaking their heads, a safer method for both adults and children is to use over-the-counter eardrops designed to help evaporate the water. Alternatively, tilting the head to the side and gently tugging on the earlobe can encourage the water to flow out naturally. If water remains trapped, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider rather than resort to forceful methods.
Therefore, while it can be instinctive to want to immediately rid oneself of this water, patience and gentler methods are not only safer but are ultimately more effective in preventing potential complications like ear infections or, more seriously, brain injuries. For children especially, avoiding aggressive head shaking is crucial – gentle care and appropriate treatment are key to handling common issues such as water in the ear.
