Surfer's ear (bony growths in the ear canal)

Overview

Cold water and wind cause bone to grow in the ear canal over years.

Narrowing traps water and wax, causing infections.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Water trapped in ears
• Ear feels plugged, full, or muffled

Less common

• Ear infections

When to get medical care

Causes

Cold water.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Surfers

Possible complications

• Swimmer's ear (outer ear infection): Trapped water leads to infections
• Hearing loss: If the canal closes

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Ear exam:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Wear earplugs in cold water

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Wear earplugs and a hood

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an ENT doctor (ear, nose, and throat doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Surfers and cold-water swimmers: Highest risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Surgery helps severe cases.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Surfer's ear (bony growths in the ear canal)