What is Surfer’s Ear (Exostosis)?
Surfer’s ear, also known as exostosis, is a condition where abnormal bony growths develop in the ear canal. These bony lumps narrow the ear canal and can lead to blockage. It is most commonly seen in people who frequently expose their ears to cold water and wind, such as surfers, swimmers, and divers.
The growths are usually benign but can cause discomfort, hearing problems, and increase the risk of ear infections.
What Are the Symptoms of Surfer’s Ear?
Symptoms may develop gradually and include:
- Hearing loss or muffled hearing
- Frequent ear infections or ear canal infections
- Ear fullness or a feeling of blockage
- Ear pain or discomfort
- Water trapped in the ear canal leading to infections
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ear) in some cases
Many people may not notice symptoms until the bony growths significantly narrow the ear canal.
What Causes Surfer’s Ear?
Surfer’s ear develops as a response to repeated exposure to cold water and cold wind. The ear canal reacts by producing extra bone to protect the inner ear from cold temperatures.
Risk factors include:
- Regular exposure to cold water and wind (surfing, swimming, diving)
- Living in cold or wet climates
- Repeated ear infections or inflammation
- Age (growth tends to develop over years)
How is Surfer’s Ear Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made by a healthcare provider or ENT specialist who examines the ear canal using an otoscope or endoscope. Imaging tests like CT scans may be done to assess the extent of bony growths.
How is Surfer’s Ear Treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and extent of ear canal narrowing.
Treatment Options:
- Conservative: Protect ears from cold water and wind by using ear plugs or hoods. Avoid water entry when possible.
- Medical: Treat any ear infections with antibiotics or ear drops.
- Surgical: In severe cases where the ear canal is significantly narrowed and causes hearing loss or recurrent infections, surgery (canalplasty) may be needed to remove the bony growths and widen the canal.
Surgery usually requires a period of healing and follow-up care.
Complications of Surfer’s Ear
If untreated, surfer’s ear can lead to:
- Frequent and chronic ear infections
- Hearing loss due to blocked ear canal
- Impacted earwax and debris buildup
- Discomfort and pain in the ear canal
Living with Surfer’s Ear
People with surfer’s ear can reduce symptoms and prevent progression by:
- Avoiding exposure to cold water and wind when possible
- Using ear protection such as ear plugs designed for water sports
- Keeping ears dry and clean
- Seeking early treatment for any ear infections
- Regular check-ups with an ENT specialist if symptoms worsen
