What is glue ear, and how can it be treated?

Glue ear, also known as otitis media with effusion, is a common condition in young children where the middle ear fills with a sticky, glue-like fluid. This fluid build-up often affects hearing and can sometimes lead to speech delays or learning difficulties if left untreated. While it can occur at any age, glue ear is most frequently diagnosed in children under the age of five.

Causes of glue ear

The main cause of glue ear is dysfunction of the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. The Eustachian tube is responsible for maintaining pressure balance between the middle ear and the external environment. When the tube doesn’t function properly, usually due to infections like colds or sinus issues, fluid can accumulate in the middle ear.

Other risk factors include allergies, exposure to tobacco smoke, bottle-feeding in a lying-down position, and frequent colds. In some cases, glue ear may be associated with enlarged adenoids, which can block the Eustachian tubes.

Symptoms

Symptoms of glue ear may vary from mild to severe. The most common symptom is reduced hearing, often noticed by parents when a child has difficulty hearing instructions or seems inattentive.

Children may also experience a feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear. While glue ear is usually painless, some children may complain of discomfort if fluid becomes infected. In many cases, the condition is self-resolving, clearing up naturally as the fluid drains out. However, persistent cases lasting three months or more may require medical intervention.

Treatment options

Treatment options for glue ear depend on the duration and severity of the condition. For mild cases, a watch-and-wait approach is typically recommended, as the fluid often clears without intervention.

If the issue persists or affects hearing significantly, doctors may recommend a minor surgical procedure to insert grommets (small tubes) into the eardrum, allowing the fluid to drain and preventing further build-up. Additionally, for cases involving frequent ear infections, adenoidectomy (removal of the adenoids) may also be considered to alleviate pressure on the Eustachian tubes.