Swimmer’s ear is a condition that develops when multiple bony growths form in the ear canal and cause a partial or complete blockage. It’s common among people who experience prolonged exposure to cold water and wind, such as cold water surfers.
Treating Swimmer's Ear with Surgery
If you are diagnosed with swimmer’s ear, you will need surgery to remove the bony growths and completely eliminate the blockage. Unfortunately, there is no other effective treatment option available. The procedure can usually be performed inside the ear canal and will typically involve removing the growths with tiny chisels. However, if the bones are in close proximity to the eardrum, a drill may be used instead of chisels to ensure precision. If the growths are located in a particularly delicate area, your ENT may recommend addressing them through a small incision behind the ear instead of through the ear canal. After surgery, you will be free to return home immediately to begin an approximately one-month-long recovery period. During that time, you will need to keep water completely out of the ear canal. Avoid swimming and surfing, and wear earplugs when taking a bath or shower. Swimmer’s ear has a high recurrence rate, so plugs should also be worn moving forward once you resume surfing, diving and swimming.