subject: Common Causes of Tinnitus Infection [print this page] Viral tinnitus infections can be more troublesome to cure. In fact, in some cases of infection, minor surgery might be needed to remove the fluid buildup and drain it from the ear. While using cotton buds may not be recommended by most doctors, it can be very helpful in removing water from the ear after showering or swimming. So it may not be very bad to use cotton buds once in a while just to make sure that no water is left inside the ear as this can prevent having tinnitus infection in the end.