What Is Glue Ear? Glue ear is a common childhood condition where fluid builds up in the middle ear, affecting hearing. It's most often seen in children under five but can continue into adolescence and sometimes affect adults.
How the Ear Works For normal hearing, the middle ear needs to stay filled with air. This is managed by the eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. In young children, the tube is narrower and less efficient, making them more prone to glue ear.
What Happens in Glue Ear When the eustachian tube becomes blocked, air can’t reach the middle ear. This causes the ear lining to produce fluid, which may thicken over time and interfere with sound transmission. This is what makes glue ear symptomsfeel like hearing through muffled ears.
Common Glue Ear Symptoms Glue ear doesn’t always come with pain or infection. Watch for signs such as:
Hearing difficulties
Delayed speech development
Changes in behavior
Difficulty focusing
Tiredness or frustration
Preferring to play alone
Not responding to voices or sounds
Glue Ear Causes Many factors can contribute to glue ear, including:
Frequent colds or flu
Allergies
Passive smoking
Genetic conditions (e.g., Down’s syndrome)
Structural issues like cleft palate
These issues can make the eustachian tube less effective, increasing the risk of glue ear.
Glue Ear Treatment Options In many cases, glue ear resolves on its own over a few months. This is known as watchful waiting. If it starts to affect hearing or development, severalglue ear treatment options are available:
Grommets: Small tubes inserted into the eardrum to help drain fluid
Autoinflation: Using a nose balloon to help open the eustachian tube
Hearing aids: Useful for children who can’t undergo surgery or need immediate support
Nasal sprays, antibiotics, and antihistamines are generally not effective. Alternative therapies like cranial osteopathy also show little benefit.
Supporting Your Child with Glue Ear Even without medical treatment, simple strategies can help your child cope with hearing challenges:
Make eye contact before speaking
Reduce background noise
Speak clearly and at a normal pace
Inform teachers so they can provide extra support
It’s helpful for the child to sit close to the teacher and feel comfortable asking for repetition or clarification.
