Glue ear, sometimes referred to as otitis media with effusion (OME), occurs when your middle ear fills with a thick, glue-like fluid. Because it can lead to complications like infection and even hearing loss, it’s important to seek treatment if you or your child has symptoms.
Common Symptoms
Glue ear is much more common in children than adults because their eustachian tubes are narrower. If your child has the condition, they might:
- Complain about pressure or pain in their ear (usually mild unless it has progressed to an infection)
- Talk louder than usual
- Have difficulty understanding what others are saying
- Struggle to hear faint noises or those that are far away
- Turn up the volume on the TV or other electronic devices
Left untreated, glue ear can cause permanent hearing damage. According to the National Library of Medicine, OME is one of the most frequent infectious diseases in children and is the most common cause of acquired hearing loss in childhood.
What Causes Glue Ear?
Normally, the middle ear is filled with air. However, fluid can build up due to:
- Eustachian tubes not working properly
- A cold or other virus
- Seasonal allergies
- Poor air quality
- Exposure to tobacco smoke
Is Glue Ear the Same Thing as an Ear Infection?
While glue ear can often turn into a middle ear infection, it doesn’t start out that way. If your child has an ear infection, they will likely experience additional symptoms such as:
- Significant ear pain
- Fever
- Fluid drainage
Treatment Options for Glue Ear
If your child is exhibiting any symptoms of glue ear, schedule an ear exam with a medical provider. They will be able to locate any fluid buildup, as well as identify whether or not it has turned into an infection.
Depending on factors like symptoms, severity and duration, several treatment options are available, including:
- Observation. Glue ear often will clear up on its own in a few months, so active observation is often the first step in children where the outlook is good.
- Hearing aids. These are temporary until your child’s condition clears and are used to help prevent developmental delays in speech and language.
- Auto-inflation. During this treatment, a child blows up a special balloon using their nose. The pressure can help open up the eustachian tubes and allow drainage.
- Surgery. In cases of severe or persistent glue ear, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the adenoids.
Bottom Line
Glue ear is a common and manageable condition. With proper medical attention and any necessary treatment, your child will be back to having fun with friends at Providence Playscape in no time.
For additional information or to schedule an appointment, call Columbia Hearing Centers today.