Existing earwax can act like a sponge, absorbing water and swelling until it completely blocks the ear canal.
Water can pool against the eardrum, preventing it from vibrating correctly and causing sounds to seem distant or distorted.
Muffled hearing after a dip in the pool or ocean is a common annoyance that usually resolves quickly, but when that "plugged up" sensation persists, it can signal anything from trapped water to a developing infection. Why Your Hearing Feels Muffled
If your hearing is muffled but you aren't in pain, these gentle techniques can help drain the water: Water stuck in ear for days - Amplifon
If water stays trapped for too long, bacteria or fungi can grow, causing the ear canal to swell and muffle sound further. Immediate Solutions: How to Clear the Blockage
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