Exostoses
When bone grows within the ear canal this is known as exostoses…
Often called ‘Swimmer’s Ear’ or ‘Surfer’s Ear’, exostoses occurs due to the exposure of cold air and water within the ear. This can grow slowly over a number of years and have been known to restrict the ear canal, sometimes completely.
The symptoms of exostoses include…
- Chronic outer ear infections
- Pain
- Hearing loss
These symptoms are mainly due to the water becoming trapped within the ear and causing a blockage that can result in the above.
How do you treat exostoses?
If the above symptoms are chronic and severe, they may require a surgical solution. During this surgical procedure an incision is made behind the ear and the exestoses are removed.
Recovery will include an overnight stay or day case admission, taking a full week off work and avoiding water for at least eight weeks.
