ear exostoses

Surfer's ear

External auditory canal exostoses (EAE), commonly known as Surfer's ear, is the name for an exostosis or abnormal bone growth within the ear canal. They are otherwise benign hyperplasias (growths) of the tympanic bone and are strongly associated with frequent cold-water and wind exposure. Cases are often asymptomatic but noticeable. Irritation from cold water and wind exposure cause the bone surrounding the ear canal to develop lumps of new bony growth which constrict the ear canal. When the ear canal is actually blocked by this condition, water and wax can become trapped and give rise to reocurring infection (otitis externa). The blockage causes individuals to experience a sense of fullness, conductive hearing loss, and pain in the ear. The condition is named due to its high prevalence among cold water surfers, although it can occur in any water temperature due to the presence of water in the ear canal. Despite the name, anyone who regularly spends time in cold or windy water is at risk such as kayakers, swimmers, and water athletes. Most avid surfers have at least some mild bone growths, causing little to no problems. The condition is gradually progressive and gets worse over time. It can generally be prevented by shielding the ear from water by consistently using earplugs and wetsuit hoods. The condition is not limited to surfing and can occur in any activity with cold, wet, windy conditions such as windsurfing, kayaking, sailing, jet skiing, kitesurfing, and diving.