Common symptoms include recurrent otitis externa, obstructed sensation, conductive hearing loss, pain in the ear, and tinnitus.

However, surfer's ear is possible at any age and is directly proportional to the amount of time spent in cold, wet, windy weather without adequate protection.

[5] As the condition progresses, the diameter narrows and can even close completely if untreated, although people generally seek help once the passage has constricted to 0.5–2 mm due to the noticeable hearing impairment.

While not necessarily harmful in and of itself, constriction of the ear canal from these growths can trap debris, leading to painful and difficult to treat infections.

[4] Preventative measures include avoiding activity during extremely cold or windy conditions, and keep the ear canal as warm and dry as possible through the use of earplugs and wetsuit hoods.

[10] Archeological research in Gran Canaria, Spain, has found a relatively high prevalence of exostosis among Pre-Hispanic craniums, reaching 34.35% in coastal burial places.