Ear Plugs & Protection
Why Surfers Should Always Use Ear Plugs to Prevent Surfer’s Ear
Spending hours in cold water is part of the thrill of surfing. But long exposure has risks. One serious issue many surfers face is surfer’s ear. This condition affects thousands worldwide and can impact your surfing life permanently.
What Is Surfer’s Ear?
Surfer’s ear, or exostosis, is caused by frequent exposure to cold wind and water. Over time, the bone in the ear canal grows extra layers. These bony growths narrow the ear canal. Water and wax get trapped easily, leading to infections and hearing problems. The condition develops slowly but worsens without treatment.
The scary part? It often goes unnoticed in the early stages. Many surfers don’t realize something’s wrong until hearing loss becomes significant. By then, surgery might be the only solution.
Why Protection Matters
Using ear plugs is a simple way to stop surfer’s ear before it starts. They create a barrier between your ear canal and cold water. This keeps your inner ear warmer and dryer during long sessions. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a daily dawn-patroller, earplugs help protect your hearing.
Surfer’s ear is not something that only affects older surfers. Even teenagers and young adults can develop symptoms. Prevention is key. Once the bone growth begins, it doesn’t go away on its own. Without protection, you’re taking a big risk every time you paddle out.
Infections and Hearing Loss
Besides bone growth, trapped water can cause frequent ear infections. These infections are painful and can keep you out of the water for days or even weeks. For competitive surfers or those chasing waves on a trip, this can be a huge setback.
Long-term infections can also cause damage to your eardrum. Some surfers develop chronic hearing loss. This doesn’t just affect your surfing. It can impact your everyday life, including work and communication. Earplugs reduce the chance of infections, keeping your ears healthy and free of blockage.
Benefits of Using EarPlugs
Modern ear plugs are designed for surfers. They allow sound to pass through while keeping water out. You can still hear your environment and communicate in the lineup. They’re lightweight, comfortable, and don’t fall out during duck dives.
Using earplugs regularly builds a smart habit. Just like sunscreen protects your skin, ear plugs protect your hearing. Many professionals now promote using them as part of basic surf safety.
They also work in warm climates. While cold water speeds up bone growth, tropical surfers are not immune. Wind, bacteria, and time in the water still pose risks. So wherever you surf, consider adding ear protection to your gear list.
Choosing the Right Ear Plugs
The best ear plugs are made for surfing. Look for ones with a secure fit, water-repellent material, and acoustic filters. Avoid foam plugs. These are not built for ocean use and won’t stay in during strong waves.
Many surf shops offer high-quality brands designed specifically for surfers. Staff can help you find the best fit. Some surfers even get custom-molded plugs for the best comfort and performance.
Cleaning your earplugs after every session is important. This prevents bacteria from building up. Keep them in a case when not in use to make them last longer.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Surfer’s ear is preventable. Yet many wait until surgery is needed to take action. Recovery from surgery can take weeks. It’s painful, expensive, and keeps you out of the water. Why not avoid all that with a simple pair of earplugs?
Think of it like wearing a helmet while skating or a leash on your board. It’s an easy step that protects your health in the long run.
Conclusion
If you're serious about surfing, you should be serious about your health. Surfer’s ear is real, and it’s more common than you think. The good news? It's preventable.
Use earplugs every time you surf. They’re small, affordable, and make a huge difference. Protect your ears so you can keep enjoying the waves for years to come.
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