Comedian Harry Enfield has revealed that his passion for cold water swimming has led to a serious health condition known as surfer's ear. The 65-year-old star, famous for creating characters like Kevin the Teenager and Tim Nice but Dim on his show Harry Enfield & Chums, spoke candidly about his diagnosis on the Off Menu podcast.
Diagnosis and Cause
Enfield visited a doctor to be fitted for a hearing aid, but instead learned he had exostosis, or surfer's ear. The NHS describes this condition as the abnormal growth of bone in the ear canal caused by repeated exposure to cold water and wind. Enfield explained, 'I'm partially deaf and, because I swim in Highgate Ponds, I've got stalactites in my ear.'
The doctor reportedly told him, 'You've got big bones - stalactites - that have grown in your ears. Do you do a lot of fresh water swimming?' Enfield confirmed he does, attributing the condition to his regular dips in north London's Highgate Ponds.
Treatment Options
While the bony growths can be surgically removed, Enfield expressed reluctance. He said the procedure is rather painful and joked he would 'sooner not hear what you're saying' than undergo it. Modern hearing aids, however, are an alternative he is considering, though they come at a high cost.
Cold Water Swimming Trend
Cold water swimming has surged in popularity in recent years, with celebrities like Harry Styles, Jamie Dornan, and Kate Middleton endorsing it. Many enthusiasts report benefits including relief from depression and grief, and early research even explores its potential to slow dementia.
However, Dr. Mark Harper, medical advisor to the Outdoor Swimming Society and an anaesthetist, warns of risks. Entering cold water can cause an involuntary gasp, raising the risk of drowning if the head is submerged. It also spikes heart rate and blood pressure, and can lead to hypothermia or heart strain.
Enfield's experience highlights a lesser-known downside of the trend, reminding swimmers to be aware of potential long-term effects like surfer's ear.
