Treatment of Glue Ear
The treatment of glue ear depends on how long the condition has persisted, the severity of the hearing loss, and whether it is affecting speech or learning development. While the treatment of glue ear is often unnecessary in mild, short-term cases, persistent or recurrent episodes may require medical or surgical intervention to prevent long-term effects.
Glue ear, also known as otitis media with effusion, causes a thick, sticky fluid to accumulate in the middle ear, reducing the ear’s ability to conduct sound. This may result in temporary hearing loss, which can affect a child’s ability to learn, speak clearly, and socialise confidently. Treatment decisions are based on a combination of clinical observation, hearing tests, and the child’s developmental needs.
Watchful Waiting
In most children, glue ear resolves on its own within a few weeks. Doctors may recommend a “watchful waiting” approach, especially if:
The condition is recent (less than 3 months)
The hearing loss is mild
The child is otherwise developing normally
During this observation period, parents are advised to:
Monitor their child’s hearing, speech, and responsiveness
Avoid passive smoking or other environmental triggers
Encourage regular nose blowing to keep Eustachian tubes clear
Return for follow-up assessments after 6–12 weeks
Many children improve spontaneously as their Eustachian tubes mature or when seasonal allergies subside.
Medical Treatments
Although there is no medication that directly clears the fluid of glue ear, supportive treatments can relieve associated symptoms:
1. Decongestants and Antihistamines
Often used if nasal congestion or allergies are contributing to Eustachian tube blockage
May offer short-term relief but are not recommended for long-term use in young children
2. Nasal Steroid Sprays
Reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes
Useful in children with allergic rhinitis or enlarged adenoids
Can be prescribed for 6–12 weeks under medical supervision
3. Antibiotics
Not usually effective for glue ear unless there is a concurrent infection
May be used in specific cases, particularly when glue ear follows acute otitis media
It’s important to note that over-reliance on medication may delay more appropriate interventions if the condition is chronic.
Grommet Insertion (Tympanostomy Tubes)
Surgical grommet insertion is the most effective and widely used treatment for chronic glue ear. A grommet is a tiny ventilation tube placed in the eardrum to:
Allow air into the middle ear
Drain the sticky fluid
Restore hearing almost immediately
Indications for grommet insertion include:
Glue ear lasting more than 3 months
Hearing loss greater than 20–30 decibels
Associated speech delay, learning difficulties, or behavioural problems
Frequent recurrences affecting quality of life
The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic and usually takes less than 15 minutes. Most children go home the same day.
Grommets typically remain in place for 6–12 months before falling out naturally. Hearing usually returns to normal during this period. In some cases, a second procedure may be needed if glue ear returns.
Adenoidectomy
If enlarged adenoids are contributing to Eustachian tube blockage or recurrent infections, adenoidectomy (surgical removal of the adenoids) may be recommended alongside grommet insertion.
This is especially helpful for children who:
Snore or breathe through the mouth
Have chronic nasal obstruction
Experience frequent upper respiratory infections
Removing the adenoids can improve middle ear ventilation and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
Hearing Aids
In cases where surgery is not an option—such as in children with certain health conditions—temporary hearing aids may be offered to support communication while monitoring the ears for natural recovery.
Bone-conduction hearing aids may also be used for children with structural issues that prevent effective grommet placement.
Managing Glue Ear in Schools and Homes
Even while waiting for treatment or monitoring the condition:
Minimise background noise when speaking to the child
Encourage face-to-face communication
Use clear speech and visual cues
Inform teachers and support staff about the child’s needs
Speech therapy may be considered if there are concerns about language delays or articulation problems.
Treatment in Adults
Adults with glue ear often require different treatment approaches:
Nasal sprays, decongestants, or allergy management
Valsalva manoeuvre (gently blowing while pinching the nose) to equalise ear pressure
Myringotomy or grommet insertion if fluid persists beyond 3 months
Persistent cases in adults may signal underlying sinus issues or tumours and should be thoroughly investigated.
Conclusion | Treatment of Glue Ear
The treatment of glue ear varies depending on how the condition presents and whether it resolves on its own or causes complications. While observation is often sufficient, persistent cases may require grommets or other interventions. By tailoring the treatment of glue ear to the individual child or adult, long-term impacts on hearing, speech, and learning can be effectively minimised.
