Glue Ear

Partial hearing loss may result from the collection of fluid in the middle ear. This answers most of the commonly asked questions about this condition. If you have any further questions, do not hesitate to contact Zail Hearing Care.

Why does the fluid collect?

The middle ear is a small air filled cavity that contains the three small bones that transmit sound from the eardrum to the nerves of the inner ear. The middle ear is connected with the back of the nose by a passage known as the Eustachian tube. It functions to equalise outside air pressure with the middle ear. When this tube is not functioning the air in the middle ear is gradually absorbed and results in a vacuum pressure. Over time, this draws the fluid into the cavity from the surrounding tissue. Slowly this fluid becomes viscous and is known as glue ear.

Why does it occur?

In infants and children the Eustachian tube is more horizontal and narrower than in adults. Infection can easily travel up the tube to the ears. Repeated upper respiratory infections, infected enlarged adenoids or tonsils and allergies can block the Eustachian tube resulting in glue ear.

What are the symptoms & effects?

The main finding in children with glue ear is some hearing loss. The degree varies and it may remain undetected for a long time. The older child may complain of blocked ears, earache, popping or deafness. The hearing may fluctuate and usually worsens with a common cold. In young children glue ear can cause a delay in development of speech if it is present for a long time, whereas in older children it can problems with listening in the classroom. The child’s school progress may be affected and can also lead to antisocial behaviour.

What happens to the fluid?

In the vast majority of cases, as the infection clears, the tube will return to its normal function within three to four weeks. Once the fluid has cleared, the hearing will return to a normal level. Some children are helped by medical treatment during the infection.

Medical treatment

Usually treatment consists of antibiotics to clear the infection and nasal decongestants to help drain and dry up the secretions. Drops in the ear itself are of no value unless there is also an infection in the external ear. Should the condition not clear up in 6-8 weeks, surgical treatment may be necessary.

Surgical treatment

Under a general anesthesia the adenoids/tonsils are often removed and eardrums are punctured. The middle ear fluid is removed and a plastic tube (grommet) is inserted into the eardrum. This tube bypasses the function of the Eustachian tube and helps to dry out the fluid.

What happens to the plastic tubes?

The grommets usually fall out of the ear on their own within 6 months to two years. While in the ears, care must be taken to keep water out of the ears by using earplugs while bathing and swimming. At Zail Hearing Care we can produce custom earplugs for this purpose.

What can happen if not treated?

Apart from educational delays, if glue ear is left unmanaged over many months, it may produce permanent changes in the eardrum and middle ear resulting in permanent hearing loss.

Click here to download this information.