Surfing Waves

Hello!

I've perforated my ear drum just in time for a weeks surfing trip to morocco. The doctor said as long as i don't get any water in i should be fine, so can anyone recommend some COMPLETELY water tight ear plugs/methods of plugging ears? Im not bothered about the plugs reducing my hearing, way more concerned that they don't let any water in.

Thanks!

viewtopic.php?f=6&t=24897#p183360

Have a look at this thread , some good points there,
If the water where you surf is polluted don’t surf wait until you are clear first, an infection would not help!

ALM wrote:Hello!

I've perforated my ear drum just in time for a weeks surfing trip to morocco. The doctor said as long as i don't get any water in i should be fine, so can anyone recommend some COMPLETELY water tight ear plugs/methods of plugging ears? Im not bothered about the plugs reducing my hearing, way more concerned that they don't let any water in.

Thanks!

I use Doc's pro plugs, but I wouldn't trust them to keep the water out. If I were in your shoes, I'd probably investigate some kind of putty to make a tight, waterproof seal. The problem with a putty type plug is that it might actually not be as sanitary as you would like it to be and could make contact with your ear drum. I'd go back to the doctor and ask for more advice. I'd even consider nixing the surfing sessions to ensure your ear makes a full recovery. Ocean water can get pretty foul and you don't want that getting into a wound. If you definitely are going to surf, then I'd try and go out in small surf where it's possible to keep your head dry most of the time. Avoid overhead sessions where you'll be paddling through a lot of whitewash. Just my two cents.

Unfortunately, I'd stay out of the water until it's healed. I've had a perforated eardrum before and it's not a nice feeling in the water. I've also tried several types of plugs, including putty, blue tack, and Surf Ears, and none of them give a 100% reliable seal. If I had to choose one I'd probably go with the blue tack.

So i went to speak to an audiologist and they advised getting a custom ear plug (costing around £40 for one) and to get some antibiotics just in case. The ear plug wasnt completely water tight but did stop almost all the water getting in, i didnt have any pain or discomfort so i guess it did its job. It did however fall out after a big wave hit the side of my face, never to be seen again! After that I just used silicone putty, which worked just as well, and didnt fall out once. So i think i'll be used them from now on!