Blocked ears are one of the most common complaints I hear in the clinic. Many people describe the sensation as though their ears are full of water, or that sounds are muffled, like listening through a wall. The natural assumption is that it must be ear wax, and quite often that is the case. At The Audiology Place in Forestville, we see patients every week whose ears are blocked simply by a build-up of wax, and in those situations, a quick microsuction procedure can bring immediate relief.
But living on the Northern Beaches brings with it some unique ear health challenges. For people who spend a lot of time in the surf, the pool, or even ocean swimming groups, blocked ears are not always caused by ear wax. There is another condition, one we see frequently in our community, that can cause very similar symptoms. It is called Surfer’s Ear, and it is far more common around coastal communities like ours than many people realise.
Ear Wax and Why It Builds Up
Ear wax, or cerumen, is completely normal. The ear canal produces it to trap dust and debris, keeping the delicate ear structures safe. Normally, the wax moves out of the ear on its own and does not need to be removed. However, in some people, ear wax accumulates faster than it clears. Those with narrow ear canals, those who use earbuds, or those who wear hearing aids are especially prone to build-up.
When ear wax does become impacted, it can cause symptoms such as muffled hearing, earache, or ringing in the ears. Microsuction—the method we use at The Audiology Place—is the safest way to remove it. Unlike ear syringing, which uses pressurised water, microsuction involves gently removing the wax with a small suction device while looking directly into the ear with specialist equipment. The procedure is quick, safe, and effective, and most people leave the clinic hearing more clearly straight away.
So yes, ear wax is often the culprit when you feel blocked up. But here on the Northern Beaches, with our active lifestyle and love of the water, there is another possibility that needs to be considered.
What is Surfer’s Ear?
Surfer’s Ear, medically known as exostosis, is a condition caused by repeated exposure to cold water and wind. Over time, the ear canal responds to these conditions by growing extra bone. This is not a sudden change but a slow process, often happening over years. As the bony growths enlarge, they narrow the ear canal. The narrower the canal, the easier it is for water and debris to get trapped, and the harder it is for the ear to clean itself.
For many people, the first sign of Surfer’s Ear is the same blocked sensation they might experience with wax. They may also notice that water gets trapped after swimming, or that they experience ear infections more frequently than they used to. Because the condition develops slowly, hearing loss can creep in without being noticed until it becomes significant.
Unlike ear wax, which can be safely removed in the clinic, Surfer’s Ear cannot be treated in the same way. Once the bony growths develop, they are permanent. In severe cases, where the canal becomes almost completely blocked, surgery may be required to widen the canal again. That is why early detection and monitoring are so important.
Why Surfer’s Ear Matters on the Northern Beaches
Here in Forestville and across the Northern Beaches, our community is built around the ocean. Surfing, paddle boarding, diving, and swimming are part of everyday life for many of us. It is not just competitive surfers who are at risk—anyone who spends time in cold water can develop Surfer’s Ear.
I often see patients who come in convinced that their ears are blocked by wax, only to discover that the true cause is exostosis. For those who have never heard of the condition, this can come as quite a surprise. The good news is that with the right examination, it is very easy to tell the difference between ear wax and Surfer’s Ear.
What To Do if You Have Blocked Ears
The most important step is not to assume. If your ears feel blocked, the first thing to do is book an appointment for a proper examination. At The Audiology Place, we use specialist equipment to look directly into the ear canal. This allows us to see if the blockage is caused by wax, or if there are bony growths present that might suggest Surfer’s Ear.
If it is ear wax, the solution is straightforward. We will arrange a safe and gentle microsuction procedure to clear the wax and restore your hearing. If it is Surfer’s Ear, we will discuss the best management options. In many cases, this may involve monitoring the condition and taking preventative measures such as wearing ear plugs when in cold water. If the growths are significant and affecting your quality of life, we may recommend you see an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist to discuss surgical options.
Prevention and Care
While you cannot reverse Surfer’s Ear once it has developed, you can reduce the risk of it progressing. Surfers, swimmers, and divers often benefit from custom-made ear plugs that keep cold water out while still allowing you to hear. Drying the ears thoroughly after swimming and avoiding prolonged exposure to cold water without protection can also make a difference.
For ear wax, prevention is simpler. Avoid cotton buds, as these tend to push wax further into the canal rather than removing it. Instead, if you are prone to build-up, book regular check-ups so any wax can be removed before it causes problems.
The Takeaway for Northern Beaches Locals
Blocked ears are frustrating, but they are not always caused by wax. For those of us who live by the ocean and love the water, Surfer’s Ear is a very real possibility. The only way to know for sure is to have your ears properly examined.
At The Audiology Place, we are here to help you work out the difference. Whether it is ear wax that can be cleared quickly with microsuction, or Surfer’s Ear that requires longer-term care, we provide a clear diagnosis and practical next steps. Living by the ocean should be a joy, not a source of ear problems, and with the right care, you can protect your hearing and keep enjoying the lifestyle we all love here on the Northern Beaches.
