What To Know About Glue Ear

Glue ear, medically known as otitis media with effusion, manifests when fluid accumulates in the middle ear. This typically happens post-ear infection or due to a blocked Eustachian tube. The lingering fluid can thicken and become sticky, hence the apt descriptor “glue ear.”

What Are the Symptoms of Glue Ear?

Approximately eight of every 10 children will experience glue ear at least once before age 10. Temporary hearing loss, tinnitus and pain or pressure in the ear are the most common symptoms of glue ear, but children may also display the following:

• Fussiness
• Sleepiness
• Poor concentration
• Not responding when spoken to
• Speaking louder than usual

While adults can develop glue ear, it is uncommon, and they are less likely to display behavioral symptoms.

What Are Common Causes of Glue Ear?

Fluid retention following an ear infection and a blocked Eustachian are the most common causes of glue ear. A few things that can result in blockages include cold and flu, allergies, environmental irritants like cigarette smoke, genetic conditions, enlarged adenoids (glands near the ears), increased air pressure and chronic acid reflux.

What Are Your Treatment Options?

During an exam, an ENT provider will look for fluid retention inside your child’s ear using a small scope. In many cases, glue ear will clear up on its own within a few months. If the condition does not clear up, your provider may recommend one of the following treatments:

• Antibiotics. Antibiotics help clear the underlying infection causing glue ear.
• Myringotomy. Myringotomy is a surgery wherein an ENT provider makes a small cut in your child’s eardrum to promote fluid drainage. In some cases, they may place an ear tube in the cut to balance pressure and prevent further ear infections.
• Adenoidectomy. If enlarged adenoids result in frequent cases of glue ear, your ENT provider may remove them using an adenoidectomy. This procedure is usually done alongside a myringotomy.

If your child is uncomfortable or fussy while waiting for glue ear to clear, try grabbing a few of their favorite foods or a pint of ice cream from Koffmeyer’s Old Fashioned. While ice cream can’t cure glue ear, it can certainly help cheer up your little one.

To learn more about caring for your child with glue ear, contact today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.