Ever notice surfers sporting beanies in the hottest months? It's not because they're trying to set a fashion trend. In fact, it's got nothing to do with style at all. We're talking about a condition called 'surfer's ear,' and it’s something everyone from professional wave riders to weekend warriors needs to be concerned about. Surfers of the world, beware: persistent exposure to cold water and wind isn't just thrilling; it’s slowly carving unwanted tunnels in your ears.
So, who gets surfer’s ear? Anyone spending significant time in cold, wet, and windy conditions. What is it exactly? Scientifically termed ‘exostosis,’ it’s the abnormal bone growth within the ear canal. When does it occur? After frequent exposure, often over several years of surfing but sometimes even sooner depending on water temperatures. Where is it most common? Coastal regions with colder waters, such as northern California, the UK, or Australia. Why? Your body’s desperate attempt to protect itself from the cold by thickening up the ear lining—a feature we didn’t need until we decided we wanted to hang ten year-round.
Don't be fooled into thinking that it’s merely a tiny inconvenience. Left untreated, surfer’s ear can lead to repeated ear infections, permanent hearing loss, or even complete blockage of the ear canal. That’s right folks; you'll be going from the thrill of riding a 10-foot wave to the terror of expensive surgery, whether it's chiseling out bone or turning to other costly medical interventions.
You might ask, "Can’t I just tough it out?" Maybe. But unless you fancy the idea of a drill or chisel coming anywhere near your head, you might want to consider prevention. Call me old school, but if a simple set of earplugs can stop something as serious as surgery, it’s probably worth the minor discomfort. Besides, are you really too cool to wear ear protection? Or are you just being misled by the fashion police who think medical issues are nothing to bother with until it’s too late?
Now, for you avid surfers out there who shrug it off, better brace yourself. Some people liken the corrective surgery to having a dentist drill through bone. That’s a searing memory you might want to pass on. This brings us back to why prevention is king, or shall I say, President. You can be obstinate and hope for the best, or heed the warnings, embrace the wisdom of preparation, and keep on surfing without the need for a hospital visit.
The science isn’t up for debate. Temperatures drop, and water and wind exposure rise, placing surfers in the bullseye. Surfer's ear is as real as climate changes that have been happening for millions of years. Let's be sensible, like the age-old saying, prevention is better than cure. Consider it civic duty to alert fellow surfers about this, because the only thing more universal than surfing might be the frustration of avoidable medical bills.
Let’s talk about the myths. No, surfer's ear won't make you immune to ear infections—quite the opposite. Repeated irritation and blockages mean infections can be more frequent and severe. No, warmer climates aren't a ticket off this train. Conditions like these occur with cool Drafts plentiful enough to strike any wave chaser. Thinking of skipping earplugs because they’re uncomfortable? Compared to a surgical procedure, they’re a dream.
Of course, some outlets might tell you the opposite, convincing you it's hyped up. But don’t stack truth like you would a bowls game. We might have the freedom to choose, but we don’t get to choose the consequences. That’s why it’s imperative to get the facts right and face the cold, hard truth. There’s no sugar-coated way around this reality.
For those scoffing at the idea of wearing ear protection, consider this a wakeup call. There’s no political dip around when it comes to basic health and economics. Earplugs or a wetsuit hood might seem like an investment at first, but they could save you a mountain of stress and health expenditure.
You love the ocean—don't let ignorance steal it from you. Stand firm but smart. Embrace gear; it’s not a sign of weakness but a badge of wisdom and forethought. You might not get on board with every trend, but do get on board with protecting yourself.
Freedom is important, yes, but so is knowledge. Let’s keep enjoying the joys of surfing without losing our hearing, or having to pay an astronomical bill to get it back. Back to the basics once more, protect yourself. The risk is real. Don’t become just another ocean story.