If you are suffering symptoms related to surfersвЂ™ ear they may be managed with conservatively by your GP who may prescribe antibiotic ear drops if there is concern about infection. There is good evidence to suggest that using ear protection will significantly lower your chances of developing exostoses. Many surfers advocate using Blu-Tack, and find this gives a comfortable tight seal if applied correctly (fig 2). Ear plugsД®ar protection can range from nonВ-customised over the counter ear plugs, of which there are plenty on the market, to custom made ear plugs which can either be arranged through your local health services or privately. This is achievable with ear plugs and/or wearing a hood particularly during winter months. Difficulty clearing water from ears or a plugging sensation.Ear pain, itchy ears, discharge or recurrent infection.Narrowing of the ear canal may result in:Д«lockage & difficulty clearing ears of water, wax and debris Evidence suggests exostoses can develop in as little as 5 years of regular cold water surfing if your ears are unprotected.

It is thought that cold water entering the ears produces an increased blood flow which stimulates the bone formation. These temperatures combined with wind chill are the major factor in the development of surfersвЂ™ ear. UK water temperatures can range from as low as 5-В6 вЊ in the winter to 15-В16 вЊ in the summer. UK surfers are particularly at risk due to year round cold water exposure. Repeatedly exposing your ears to cold water over an extended period of time. SurferвЂ™s ear (or auditory exostosis) is the narrowing of the ear canal due to abnormal formation of boney growths protruding into the ear (fig 1).

Aural toilet