Comedy actor Harry Enfield recently disclosed that his venture into the wellness trend of cold water swimming has resulted in his hearing loss. However, medical experts suggest that his condition might have been preventable.
The 65-year-old actor noted that he has developed ‘extra bones growing in his ears’ as a consequence of his frequent wild swimming sessions in London’s Hampstead Heath ponds.
Upon visiting a specialist for hearing aids, Enfield was diagnosed with exostoses, a condition more widely known as surfer’s ear.
Medical professionals indicate that this condition is quite prevalent among swimmers. Some studies estimate that up to 70 percent of individuals who participate in water sports may be affected.
Gordon Harrison, Chief Audiologist at Specsavers, explains: “Exostosis, commonly called ‘surfer’s ear’, occurs when extra bone forms inside the ear canal after prolonged exposure to cold water and wind.”
He adds, “While we cannot speak specifically to Harry’s diagnosis, engaging in frequent cold-water or wild swimming is a known risk factor for this condition.”
‘The growth of bone is thought to be the body’s natural response to protect the ear from repeated cold exposure. Over time, these bony growths can narrow the ear canal, making it easier for water, wax and debris to become trapped, which may lead to hearing difficulties, recurrent infections or a feeling of blockage in the ear.’
Harry, 65, was diagnosed with the condition recently after going to be fitted for hearing aids. ‘I’m deaf, partially deaf,’ he explains. ‘And because I swim in Highgate Ponds, I’ve got stalactites in my ears.’
Comedy actor Harry Enfield has revealed that the latest wellness trend of cold water swimming has left him deaf
The 65-year-old said that he has ‘extra bones growing in his ears’ due to wild swimming in Hampstead Heath
He said: ‘They’ve got tiny little hearing aids you can get now and apparently they’re very good. They cost a fortune, but they’re worth having. So I went to get them fitted.
‘They said, “No, you’ve got big bones – stalactites – that have grown in your ears. Do you do a lot of fresh water swimming?” I said, “Well, yeah”. They said, “Ah, that’s what it is.”‘
Experts say that it is likely that Harry Enfield had a bad case after years of exposure.
‘At their worst, exostosis can block the ear canals and cause conductive hearing loss,’ says Sue Falkingham, a Yorkshire-based audiologist.
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‘It is likely that Harry could not have the smallest hearing aid because there isn’t room in his ear canal to get the workings in because of the lumps.’
Speaking on the Off Menu podcast, he says: ‘You can have them chopped off, but it’s very painful and takes a long time. I’d sooner not hear what you’re saying.’
Exostosis, better known as ‘surfer’s ear’, occurs when repeated exposure to cold water and wind irritates the ear canal, triggering the body to grow new lumps of bone.
The growths develop slowly and can then lead to issues with retained ear wax, ear canal skin infections, and in some cases, hearing loss. It usually occurs in both ears.
Last year Enfield also spoke about his hearing loss on The Third Act podcast, saying that he was now ‘getting very deaf and I just cannot hear in restaurants’.
However experts say that there are simple solutions for cold water swimmers to avoid the condition and infections which are also common.
‘Using swimming ear plugs helps prevent water from getting trapped in the ear canal. Regular swimmers may benefit from custom-fit ear protection for extra comfort and a better seal,’ says Mr Harrison.
As well as ear protection the audiologist recommends using a ‘snug-fitting swimming cap for extra protection.’
Experts also say that choosing where to swim is also important.
‘While wild swimming is a popular and fun way to cool off in the sun, many bodies of water aren’t managed or disinfected on a regular basis. If you’re not sure how clean a body of water is – such as a lake or river, or if there is clear waste and debris on the surface, it’s best to avoid swimming to prevent bacteria from entering your ears and causing infection,’ says Mr Harrison.
A simple manoeuvre after swimming can also reduce risk, he adds.
‘Tilting your head to the side after swimming is a great way to let any excess water drain out naturally. This can help reduce the risk of water staying in the ear canal, which can lead to infection,’ says Mr Harrison.
‘Afterwards, see a clean towel to gently dry the outer part of your ear after swimming, showering, or bathing. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal, as this can push wax deeper and increase the risk of infection. ‘
As well as trying to prevent conditions that may arise from cold water swimming, experts say spotting the early signs are also key.
‘If you experience muffled hearing, a feeling of fullness, or a tickly sensation after swimming, water may be trapped in your ear,’ says Mr Harrison.
‘Any other symptoms like itchy ears, redness, discomfort, or swelling in the ear canal may signal infection and it’s best to see an audiologist for treatment.
‘With the right care, swimmer’s ear usually clears up within a week but leaving it untreated can lead to further complications so we always recommend seeing a professional audiologist expert to check your ears, hearing and offer a diagnosis if needed. ‘
