Water does not always enter the ear when submerged due to the presence of atmospheric gases in the ear canal, which must be displaced for water to enter. The orientation of the body affects this process; for example, if one ear is facing down, gas pressure can prevent water from entering that ear while the other ear may fill with water more easily. Individual variations in ear canal structure also play a significant role in how water interacts with each person's ears. Therefore, the experience of water entering the ear can differ from person to person based on these factors. Understanding these dynamics can clarify why water only sometimes enters the ear during swimming.