Harry Enfield Reveals Hearing Loss Linked to Freshwater Swimming Trend
BBC comedy legend left deaf after wellness trend goes tragically wrong

Image: Express
BBC comedian Harry Enfield has revealed that he is partially deaf due to exostoses, a condition linked to his freshwater swimming at Highgate Ponds. The 65-year-old discussed his diagnosis and the challenges of hearing loss on the Off Menu podcast, highlighting the impact of this wellness trend on his health.
- 01Harry Enfield was diagnosed with exostoses, commonly known as surfer's ear, after swimming in freshwater.
- 02He described the growths in his ears as 'stalactites' and noted they can cause significant hearing loss.
- 03Enfield mentioned that while surgery to remove the growths is an option, it can be painful and lengthy.
- 04He has been fitted for hearing aids, which he acknowledges are costly but beneficial.
- 05Enfield frequently struggles to hear in noisy environments, such as restaurants, and has requested venues to reduce background music.
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Harry Enfield, the beloved BBC comedy star, has shared his struggles with hearing loss, attributing it to a condition known as exostoses, or surfer's ear, caused by his freshwater swimming in Highgate Ponds. During an appearance on the Off Menu podcast, the 65-year-old revealed that he is now 'partially deaf' and has been fitted for hearing aids. He humorously described the bony growths in his ears as resembling 'stalactites' and noted that while surgery is an option to remove them, it can be quite painful. Enfield explained that exostoses develop from repeated exposure to cold water and wind, leading to bone growth in the ear canal, which can result in hearing loss and other complications. He also reflected on how his hearing difficulties affect his daily life, particularly in noisy settings like restaurants, where he often asks for the music to be turned down. Despite the challenges, Enfield maintains a light-hearted attitude about his swimming routine and the associated costs.
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Enfield's experience highlights the potential health risks associated with freshwater swimming, particularly for regular swimmers.
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