Glue Ear
Glue ear is a common condition in children where the middle ear becomes filled with a thick, sticky fluid instead of air. This fluid dampens the movement of the eardrum and the small bones in the ear, leading to temporary hearing loss. Although glue ear is most prevalent in young children, it can also affect adults, especially after infections or upper respiratory issues.
The condition is also known as otitis media with effusion (OME) and can occur in one or both ears. It is not usually painful, unlike acute ear infections, which involve inflammation and fever. Despite being painless, glue ear can significantly affect a child’s ability to hear, speak, and learn if it persists for long periods.
What Happens Inside the Ear?
The ear is divided into three sections: the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. The middle ear, located behind the eardrum, normally contains air, which helps conduct sound efficiently to the inner ear. A small tube called the Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the nose, allowing air to flow in and fluid to drain out.
In glue ear:
The Eustachian tube becomes blocked or doesn’t function properly
Air in the middle ear is replaced with sticky fluid
Sound vibrations are muffled by the fluid, reducing hearing clarity
The condition may develop slowly over weeks or months
Children are more susceptible because their Eustachian tubes are shorter and more horizontal, making drainage less effective.
Who Is Affected?
Glue ear can affect people of any age but is most common in:
Children aged 1 to 6 years
Boys more than girls (slightly higher incidence)
Children who attend day care or nursery
Children with allergies, frequent colds, or family history of ear problems
Those with cleft palate, Down’s syndrome, or other craniofacial abnormalities
It is estimated that up to 80% of children will experience at least one episode of glue ear before the age of 10.
Symptoms of Glue Ear
Glue ear often goes unnoticed by parents or caregivers because it doesn’t typically cause pain. However, signs to watch for include:
Muffled hearing or selective listening
Delayed speech or language development
Poor attention or concentration
Frustration, behavioural changes, or social withdrawal
Balance issues in younger children
Talking loudly or turning up the volume on electronic devices
In school-aged children, teachers may be the first to notice that a child is not responding appropriately in class.
Diagnosis
Glue ear is diagnosed through a combination of clinical history and specialised ear examinations:
1. Otoscopy
A small lighted scope is used to examine the eardrum
The eardrum may appear dull, retracted, or show fluid behind it
2. Tympanometry
Measures how well the eardrum moves in response to pressure changes
A flat or abnormal curve suggests fluid in the middle ear
3. Hearing Tests
Audiometry or age-appropriate hearing assessments evaluate the degree of hearing loss
Conductive hearing loss is usually mild to moderate in glue ear
Routine hearing checks are especially important for children with speech delays or learning difficulties.
Duration and Course of the Condition
Glue ear is often self-limiting:
Most cases resolve within 6 to 10 weeks
If it persists for longer than three months, it may be considered chronic
Recurrent episodes are common, particularly during winter or allergy seasons
Some children experience glue ear repeatedly, especially during their early school years, but often outgrow the condition as their Eustachian tubes mature.
Impact on Development
Persistent glue ear can affect:
Speech and language development
Social interaction
Educational performance
Children may miss key sounds and words during a critical period of language acquisition, leading to longer-term communication challenges.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Parents should consult a healthcare provider if:
Hearing problems last longer than a few weeks
Speech development appears delayed
There are concerns about learning or behaviour
The child is experiencing frequent ear infections alongside glue ear
Early assessment can prevent unnecessary complications and ensure timely intervention if needed.
Conclusion | Glue Ear
Glue ear is a widespread, often temporary condition that can significantly impact a child’s hearing and development if not identified early. Although glue ear usually resolves without treatment, persistent or recurrent cases require careful monitoring and, in some cases, medical or surgical intervention. Recognising the signs and seeking early advice can ensure children continue to thrive in their communication and learning milestones.
