Glue Ear

Glue ear, medically known as otitis media with effusion, is a condition where fluid builds up behind the eardrum in the middle ear. This fluid can cause muffled hearing and a feeling of fullness in the ear. Glue ear is most commonly found in children between ages 2-7 but can also effect adults.

What Causes Glue Ear?

The exact cause of glue ear is often unknown. However, it is often associated with:

• Upper respiratory infections: Colds, flu, and other infections can lead to inflammation and blockage of the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat. This can prevent fluid from draining properly.
• Allergies: Allergies can contribute to inflammation and congestion in the Eustachian tubes.
• Adenoids: Enlarged adenoids, located at the back of the throat, can block the Eustachian tubes.
• Smoking: Exposure to second-hand smoke can irritate the Eustachian tubes.

What Does Glue Ear Feel/Look Like?

Symptoms of glue ear may include:

• Hearing loss: A feeling of fullness or muffled hearing
• Popping or crackling sounds: A sensation of popping or crackling in the ear
• Educational Progress: Glue ear can lead to difficulties following instructions, academic challenges, and social isolation.
• Speech and Language Development: Glue ear may cause delayed speech, language difficulties, and mispronunciation.
• Listening Effort: Glue ear can increase listening effort, lead to distractibility, and contribute to behavioural problems.

How Long Does Glue Ear Last?

Glue ear can last for a few weeks or several months. In some cases, it may resolve on its own. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, medical intervention may be necessary.

Is Glue Ear Hereditary?

There is no clear evidence to suggest that glue ear is hereditary. However, some people may be more susceptible to developing the condition due to genetic factors or underlying health conditions.

How is Glue Ear Diagnosed?

Our otologists will conduct a thorough physical examination and review your medical history to diagnose glue ear. Additionally, they will perform audiometry and tympanometry, both of which assess your hearing and eardrum function, during your consultation.

Can Glue Ear Come Back?

It is possible for glue ear to recur, especially in children who are prone to frequent ear infections.

Glue Ear Discharge

While glue ear itself does not typically cause discharge, a bacterial infection can develop in the middle ear, leading to drainage. This is often accompanied by pain and fever.

Can Glue Ear Cause Tinnitus?

In some cases, glue ear can contribute to tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears.

Glue Ear Treatment

The treatment for glue ear may vary depending on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. Options may include:

• Observation: In mild cases, the condition may resolve on its own with time.
• Nasal decongestants (Only for adults): Over-the-counter nasal decongestants can help to open the Eustachian tubes.
• Eustachian tube dilation (Only for adults): This procedure involves gently inflating the Eustachian tubes to help drain fluid.
• Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed.
• Adenoidectomy: If enlarged adenoids are contributing to glue ear, surgery to remove them may be recommended.
• Bone conduction device: A bone conduction device (BCD) is a type of hearing aid that transmits sound vibrations directly to the inner ear through the bones of the skull. This is different from traditional hearing aids, which use speakers to transmit sound through the air to the outer ear.
• Grommet insertion: In persistent cases, a temporary grommet (small tube) may be surgically inserted into the eardrum to allow fluid to drain.

Why Choose OneWelbeck?

At OneWelbeck, our expert otologists are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients with glue ear. Our team has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating this condition, and we offer a range of effective treatment options.