You’re paddling out for a surf, with the offshore breeze carrying the scent of salt and seaweed. The waves are perfect, glassy and clean. But as you duck-dive under an incoming set, something feels… off. There’s a fullness in your ear, a muffled sensation that wasn’t there before. That’ll be surfer’s ear, a condition as much a part of wave-riding culture as board wax and dawn patrols.

But what exactly is surfer’s ear, and why should every ocean enthusiast be aware of it? Let’s take a closer look and explore this common but often misunderstood condition.

What is Surfer’s Ear?

Surfer’s ear, known in medical circles as exostosis, is a condition where bone grows in the ear canal as a response to repeated exposure to cold water and wind. Think of it as your body’s overzealous attempt to protect your inner ear—by growing extra bone to narrow the ear canal, it’s trying to keep that chilly water out.

The result? Small bony growths that can lead to a host of issues, from mild discomfort to serious hearing problems. And despite its name, you don’t have to be hanging ten to develop surfer’s ear. Any water sport enthusiast—from swimmers to kayakers to divers—can be affected.

The Cold, Hard Facts

Surfer’s ear is incredibly common among, well, surfers. Studies have shown that up to 80% of surfers show some degree of exostosis. The longer you’ve been surfing and the colder the water you frequent, the higher your chances of developing these bony growths.

But before you hang up your wetsuit in despair, let’s look at the symptoms, causes, and prevention methods. Because with a little knowledge and some simple precautions, you can keep riding waves without compromising your hearing.

Symptoms: When Your Ears Are Trying to Tell You Something

The tricky thing about surfer’s ear is that it develops slowly, often over years. You might not notice anything amiss until the condition has progressed significantly. With that in mind, here are some signs to watch out for:

  1. Water trapped in your ear: If you find water staying in your ear long after your session, it could be a sign of narrowing ear canals.
  2. Frequent ear infections: As water gets trapped more easily, the warm, moist environment becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.
  3. Muffled hearing: As the ear canal narrows, sound has a harder time reaching your eardrum.
  4. Pain or a feeling of fullness in the ear: This can be due to trapped water or developing infections.
  5. Tinnitus: In some cases, you might experience ringing in your ears.

Remember that these symptoms can also be signs of other ear conditions, so it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional if you’re experiencing any of them regularly.

The Root of the Problem: Why Cold Water is the Culprit

So why does cold water cause these bony growths? It all comes down to your body’s protective instincts. When cold water repeatedly enters your ear canal, it stimulates the bone surrounding the canal to grow. Over time, this extra bone growth narrows the canal and makes it even easier for water to get trapped. It’s a vicious cycle that can lead to more severe symptoms.

But it’s not just the water temperature that matters. Wind chill can also contribute to the development of surfer’s ear. That’s why you’ll often see surfers in colder climates sporting those stylish (and functional) neoprene hoods.

Prevention: Keeping Surfer’s Ear at Bay

Now for the good news: surfer’s ear is largely preventable. Here are some tried-and-true methods to protect your ears while still enjoying your time in the water:

  1. Wear earplugs: Custom-fitted surfing earplugs are your first line of defense. They keep cold water out of your ear canal while still allowing you to hear. Many pro surfers swear by them, and they come in a variety of styles and materials.
  2. Use a neoprene hood: In colder waters, a good hood can make a world of difference. It not only keeps your head warm but also helps protect your ears from wind and water.
  3. Dry your ears after sessions: Use a towel or a hairdryer on low heat to ensure your ears are completely dry after surfing.
  4. Consider surfing in warmer waters: If you have the luxury of choice, opting for warmer surf spots can reduce your risk.
  5. Be mindful of wind chill: Even if the water’s warm, a cold wind can contribute to surfer’s ear. Keep those ears covered!

Prevention is always easier (and less painful) than treatment. Making these practices part of your surfing routine can save you a lot of trouble down the line.

When Prevention Isn’t Enough: Treatment Options

Despite our best efforts, sometimes surfer’s ear still develops. If you’re experiencing symptoms or have been diagnosed with exostosis, what are your options?

For mild cases, your doctor might recommend regular cleaning to remove trapped water and wax. They might also prescribe ear drops to help prevent infections.

In more severe cases, where the ear canal has narrowed significantly, surgery might be necessary. The procedure, known as canalplasty, involves removing the bony growths to widen the ear canal. It’s typically done under general anesthesia and requires a recovery period of about six weeks, which, yes, means staying out of the water.

There is good news however. The surgery is generally very successful, with most surfers able to return to the waves once they’ve healed. The bad news? Without proper precautions, surfer’s ear can recur, so it’s really important to protect your ears post-surgery.

Surfer’s Ear in the Pro Circuit

You might be wondering, “If surfer’s ear is so common, how do professional surfers deal with it?” Well, the truth is, many of them have. Legendary surfers like Taylor Knox and Tom Curren have been open about their battles with surfer’s ear and subsequent surgeries.

For pros who spend countless hours in the water, often in cold conditions, surfer’s ear is an occupational hazard. Many have incorporated ear protection into their routines, setting an example for amateurs and weekend warriors alike.

Take Kelly Slater, for instance. The 11-time world champion has been spotted wearing earplugs during competitions. If it’s good enough for the GOAT (Greatest of All Time), it’s probably worth considering for the rest of us mere mortals.

Beyond Surfing: Other Water Sports and Surfer’s Ear

While surfers might be the poster children for exostosis, they’re not the only ones at risk. Any activity that involves frequent exposure to cold water can lead to surfer’s ear. This includes:

  1. Open water swimming
  2. Diving
  3. Kayaking and canoeing
  4. Jet skiing
  5. Kitesurfing and windsurfing

If you’re a multi-sport enthusiast, be aware that your risk might be compounded. The more time you spend in cold water, regardless of the activity, the higher your chances of developing surfer’s ear.

The Psychological Impact: More Than Just Physical Discomfort

The psychological impact is something that often gets overlooked when discussing surfer’s ear. For many surfers, the ocean is a source of joy, a stress reliever, and even a spiritual connection. The prospect of being kept out of the water due to ear problems or surgery can be deeply distressing.

Moreover, hearing issues can affect social interactions and overall quality of life. Imagine struggling to hear your friends over the sound of breaking waves, or missing the call of “Outside!” when a big set is rolling in. These scenarios can lead to frustration, anxiety, and even a sense of isolation.

That’s why it’s crucial to address surfer’s ear early and take preventive measures seriously. It’s not just about protecting your physical health—it’s about preserving your ability to fully enjoy the surfing lifestyle.

Global Warming and Surfer’s Ear: An Unexpected Connection

Here’s an interesting twist. Climate change might actually be decreasing the incidence of surfer’s ear in some areas. As ocean temperatures rise, surfers in traditionally cold-water locations might find themselves at lower risk. However, this is hardly a silver lining to the serious issue of global warming.

On the flip side, changing weather patterns could lead to stronger winds in some regions, potentially increasing the risk of surfer’s ear due to wind chill. It’s a complex issue that underscores the intricate relationship between our environment and our health.

The Future of Surfer’s Ear Prevention and Treatment

As awareness of surfer’s ear grows, so does research into prevention and treatment. Some exciting developments on the horizon include:

  1. Advanced earplugs: New materials and designs are making earplugs more comfortable and effective than ever.
  2. Improved surgical techniques: Less invasive procedures could mean shorter recovery times for those who need surgery.
  3. Early detection methods: Research is ongoing into ways to detect surfer’s ear in its early stages, potentially allowing for intervention before surgery becomes necessary.
  4. Education initiatives: Surf schools like Rapture Camps and organizations are increasingly incorporating ear health into their safety briefings.

The Bottom Line: Respect Your Ears as Much as the Waves

Surfer’s ear is a reminder that as much as we might feel at one with the ocean, our bodies aren’t always built for constant exposure to its elements. But with the right precautions, you can minimize your risk and keep paddling out year after year.

Remember:

Surfing is about joy, challenge, and connection with nature. By taking care of your ears, you’re ensuring that you can continue to experience all the stoke that surfing has to offer for years to come.

So next time you’re waxing up your board and checking the surf forecast, take a moment to think about your ear protection too for the sake of your long-term health and surfing enjoyment.