Ear To Clear

16/09/2026

14/09/2026

🏊‍♀️❄️ Cold-water swimming & “Surfer’s Ear” (exostosis) 👂

Did you know that regular swimming in cold open water can increase the risk of developing exostosis, sometimes called Surfer’s Ear?

Exostosis is a gradual growth of extra bone inside the ear canal. It’s thought to be the ear’s response to repeated exposure to cold water and cold air. The more frequently you’re exposed — particularly over years of regular open-water swimming — the greater the risk.

It can eventually narrow the ear canal, making it easier for water, wax and debris to become trapped, which can lead to recurrent ear infections, blocked ears and hearing problems.

🧊 A few simple ways to reduce the risk:

• 🏊‍♀️ Wear well-fitting earplugs designed for swimming
• 🧢 A neoprene swim cap that covers the ears can provide an extra barrier against the cold
• 🚿 Dry your ears thoroughly after swimming — gently towel the outside rather than poking inside
• ❌ Avoid cotton buds or putting anything into the ear canal
• 🌊 The colder and more frequently you swim, the more important ear protection becomes
• 👂 If you notice persistent blockage, reduced hearing, recurrent ear infections or difficulty getting water out of your ears, get your ears checked

You don’t necessarily need to give up cold-water swimming — protecting your ears can help reduce your exposure to the cold that contributes to exostosis.

And remember: prevention is much easier than dealing with a significantly narrowed ear canal later!

14/09/2026

Appointments available this afternoon..

13/09/2026

We have appointments available tomorrow 😃

10/09/2026

Another lovely bit of feedback from a patient 😀 😀