Ear Problems Caused By Surfing
It is a frequent problem for surfer's that they will become deaf after several happy years of surfing. This is due to the surfer's ear disorder. When the ears gets wet and the wind blows over them they are chilled. The bone responds by growing over the ear opening. This can take many years and results in progressive deafness and the retention of the dead skin cells and water. This post will describe two different ear problems caused by surfing.
Ear infections ensue due to dampness and warmness in the ear creating ideal culture medium for the bacteria and fungi. Early on the problem results in a bit of itching. If this is left unchecked it will become painful, sore and there may be a discharge of blood, pus and blood.
Sore ears are begging for pen lids and fingers to poked into them to scratch. Beware, this can result in damaged epithelium, worsening ear infection and prolongation of the pain.
Ears of surfers are also at increased risk of ear infections. The use of ear plugs from ZenPlugs can protect against ear infections in addition to surfers' ear. This is because they are hygienic, non-porous and antibacterial and, of course, are incredible for keeping water out of the ears.
Surfer's ear has become more common and more severe since the advent of improved wetsuit design. Improvements in materials technology as well as style and fit have meant that surfers can stay in the water for much longer. The problem is that the wetsuit protects the body but not the ears. The risk of surfer's ear is increased. This makes it even more important to wear ear plugs and a surfing cap to protect the surfer from deafness and recurrent ear infections.
Treatment for ear infections is available but it involves the chiselling or drilling of excess bone away from the ear canals. This may be unpleasant. Having it performed doesn't protect the individual from needing it repeating if exposure continues.
