Symptoms of Glue Ear
The symptoms of glue ear can be difficult to detect, particularly in young children who may not be able to describe what they’re experiencing. Many parents and teachers only realise there’s a problem when they observe behavioural changes or delays in communication. Because the symptoms of glue ear often develop gradually and are not painful, they may go unnoticed for weeks or even months.
Glue ear (otitis media with effusion) affects the middle ear, where a thick, sticky fluid accumulates behind the eardrum. This fluid prevents sound vibrations from reaching the inner ear effectively, resulting in a mild to moderate hearing loss. Identifying the symptoms early is key to minimising its impact on language development, learning, and social interaction—especially in younger children.
Key Indicators in Infants and Toddlers
Children under three are the most affected by glue ear, but they are also the least likely to be able to describe what they’re feeling. Parents and caregivers should look for the following signs:
Delayed speech or unclear words compared to children of the same age
Lack of response when spoken to from behind or in noisy environments
Startling only when they see someone, not when they hear them
Turning the TV volume up unusually high
Frequent tugging or rubbing of the ears, although this is less common than with infections
Clumsiness or poor balance, since the middle ear also helps with equilibrium
Many of these signs may also be seen in children with general hearing loss, so it’s important to have a proper diagnosis from a healthcare provider.
Behavioural Clues in Older Children
School-aged children may display a range of subtle behaviours that point to undiagnosed glue ear:
Daydreaming or appearing inattentive in class
Difficulty following instructions, especially in group settings
Speaking loudly or repeating questions unnecessarily
Frustration or emotional outbursts due to communication difficulties
Mispronunciation of words or avoiding speaking entirely in group settings
These behaviours can sometimes be misinterpreted as learning difficulties, ADHD, or oppositional behaviour, when in fact they stem from an undiagnosed hearing impairment.
Physical Symptoms
Although glue ear itself does not usually cause pain, some physical symptoms can still appear:
Muffled hearing, described by older children as having “blocked ears” or “underwater” hearing
Tinnitus, or a ringing/buzzing in the ears
A feeling of pressure or fullness in the affected ear
Mild dizziness or balance problems during movement or play
In some cases, a recent cold or upper respiratory infection may have preceded the development of these symptoms, especially during the winter months.
Duration and Patterns
The symptoms of glue ear can fluctuate:
Some children experience them intermittently, especially after viral illnesses
Others have persistent issues lasting for several weeks or even months
Hearing loss is often bilateral, affecting both ears, although it may be more noticeable in one
Parents may find that symptoms are worse during allergy season or when their child has a stuffy nose.
Long-Term Impacts
If glue ear persists without treatment:
Language and speech development can be significantly delayed
Children may fall behind in reading, comprehension, and literacy skills
Social withdrawal or low confidence may develop
Children may struggle with peer interaction or be mislabelled as disruptive
The long-term consequences of ignoring the symptoms of glue ear can extend well beyond childhood. That’s why early detection and management are essential.
When to Seek Medical Advice
You should consult a doctor or audiologist if:
Your child has any persistent hearing loss or unclear speech
The symptoms have lasted longer than four to six weeks
There is evidence of speech delay or learning difficulties
Teachers or caregivers have raised concerns about listening or behaviour
The child has repeated episodes during the year
Referral to an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist may be recommended if symptoms are severe, chronic, or recurrent.
Conclusion | Symptoms of Glue Ear
The symptoms of glue ear can range from subtle hearing loss to more noticeable speech and behavioural changes. Recognising the early signs allows parents and teachers to seek medical evaluation before the condition affects the child’s development. With close observation and early intervention, the impact of the symptoms of glue ear can be minimised, ensuring better communication and learning outcomes.
