Surfer’s ear is a very common hearing problem among water sports enthusiasts. This condition can cause significant discomfort and even permanent damage if not treated properly.
Stay tuned to this article to learn all about this common hearing problem.
What is surfer’s ear?
Surfer’s ear, also known as ear canal exostosis, is an abnormal bony growth in the ear canal. This problem is caused by repeated exposure to cold water and wind, typical conditions for surfers, swimmers and other water athletes.
Causes of this problem
The development of surfer’s ear is mainly due to continuous exposure to wet and cold environments. When the ear canal is in frequent contact with water at low temperatures, the body reacts by forming more bone tissue in an attempt to protect this sensitive area. This growth, although a natural response, progressively reduces the space in the ear canal, making it more difficult for sound to pass through and encouraging the accumulation of water and earwax.
In addition, the combination of wind and moisture acts as an irritant that accelerates the process of exostosis. Lack of adequate protection, such as the use of waterproof earplugs or specialised equipment, greatly increases the risk, especially for those who spend long periods in the water doing sports such as surfing, swimming or kayaking.
Symptoms of surfer’s ear
Symptoms of the condition can vary depending on the severity of the case, but the most common symptoms include:
- Hearing loss: As the ear canal narrows, the reception of sounds becomes increasingly difficult. This symptom usually appears gradually, sometimes making it difficult for sufferers to notice in the early stages.
- Pain or discomfort: There may be a feeling of constant pressure or pain in the affected ear, which may intensify after prolonged exposure to cold water or wind.
- Recurrent infections: The narrowing of the canal facilitates the accumulation of water and earwax, creating an environment conducive to bacterial and fungal growth. This can lead to frequent infections such as otitis, which can be particularly painful and difficult to treat if not addressed in time.
- Clogged ear sensation: Many people describe a feeling of blockage or fullness in the ear, which can be especially bothersome after water activities. This sensation may be intermittent at first, but tends to become persistent as the exostosis progresses.
- Ringing or tinnitus: In some cases, bone growth can cause constant or intermittent noise in the ear, creating additional discomfort and affecting quality of life.
It is important to note that these symptoms do not always occur simultaneously. If you recognise these symptoms, we recommend that you seek professional help to avoid further complications. Locating and preventing hearing problems will help you in the long run in your daily life.
How to treat surfer’s ear?
The treatment of surfer’s ear depends on the stage at which the condition is diagnosed. In mild cases, preventive solutions and regular care may be sufficient, while more advanced cases may require surgical intervention:
- Hearing protection: Using specialised earplugs and wetsuits can prevent the progression of exostoses.
- Proper hygiene: Keeping the ears dry and clean reduces the likelihood of infection.
- Surgery: In severe cases, a surgical procedure known as canaloplasty is performed to remove the bony growths and restore hearing function.
Consult a professional
If you think you have symptoms of this hearing condition, you can come to us. At Audífonos Domínguez, we are specialists in hearing health and have a highly trained team to diagnose and treat problems such as surfer’s ear.
Our services include a complete hearing evaluation where we accurately detect any abnormalities in the ear and design a prevention plan and treatment adapted to your needs. In addition, we offer you state-of-the-art hearing protection products to guarantee the health of your ears.
Contact us to find out more.
