What is Surfer's Ear and How to Prevent It?
Imagine the thrill of catching the perfect wave on a crisp morning, the wind whipping through your hair, and the cold sea spray hitting your face. Surfing in such exhilarating conditions can be an incredible experience. However, without proper ear protection, you might be putting yourself at risk for surfer’s ear—a condition that can lead to tinnitus, hearing impairments, and painful ear infections.
What Exactly is Surfer’s Ear?
Surfer’s ear is a condition known as exostosis, which is the abnormal bone growth in the ear canal. Prolonged exposure to cold water and wind stimulates the bone surrounding the ear canal to grow in an attempt to protect the ear drum. This growth, however, can lead to significant problems.
Symptoms of Surfer’s Ear
The bone growth in the ear canal obstructs it, which can trap water after a surfing session. This is not only uncomfortable but also fosters bacterial growth, increasing the risk of ear infections. In advanced stages, the continuous bone growth can further narrow the ear canal, leading to auditory impairments and hearing loss.
How Can Surfer’s Ear Be Treated?
Since surfer’s ear involves bone growth rather than soft tissue swelling, the body cannot recover on its own. The only way to remove the obstruction is through surgery. The procedure typically involves using a tiny chisel or drill through the ear canal, though sometimes an incision behind the ear is necessary.
Post-surgery, it’s crucial to avoid water entering the ear canal for at least a month to allow proper healing. This means wearing earplugs during water activities and even while showering. Remember, even after surgical removal, surfer’s ear can recur if proper ear protection isn’t used during future surf sessions.
Am I at Risk for Surfer’s Ear?
Long-term surfers in colder climates are particularly at risk. A study of 105 surfers in Cornwall, England, found that 63.8% had surfer’s ear to some degree. Another study with 307 surfers revealed that even among those with less than 10 years of experience, only 44.7% had normal ear canals without obstructions. This indicates that if you plan to make surfing a regular part of your life, taking precautions from the start is essential.
Surfing in cold water and climates significantly increases the risk of developing surfer’s ear. Wetsuits can give a false sense of security by keeping your body warm, but your ears remain exposed to cold seawater and wind. Therefore, it’s crucial to protect your ears just as you protect your body.
How to Prevent Surfer’s Ear
Preventing cold water and wind from entering your ear canals is the only effective method to avoid developing surfer’s ear. Here are some tips:
- Wear Ear Plugs: Using earplugs while surfing significantly reduces the risk of developing surfer’s ear. Look for high-quality plugs designed specifically for water activities.
- Use a Hooded Wetsuit, Headbands, or Ear Covers: These can help prevent water and wind from entering your ear canals. Combining earplugs with additional ear covers provides the best protection.
- SMILE Surf Wear's Protective Gear: Our Reef Ranger 1.0 comes with mesh earmuffs designed to reduce the amount and force of water and wind hitting your ears. For extra protection, you can use sealed earplugs underneath the mesh.
Final Thoughts
Surfer’s ear is a common condition among surfers, especially those in colder climates. However, with the right precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk. Investing in good ear protection ensures you can enjoy the waves without compromising your ear health.
With the right protective gear, like SMILE Surf Wear’s innovative surf bucket hats and earmuffs, you can keep riding the waves safely and comfortably. So, protect your ears, stay safe, and enjoy the surf!