What is glue ear?
Glue ear, also known as otitis media with effusion (OME), is a condition in which fluid builds up in the middle ear. The middle ear is the space behind the eardrum..
Symptoms of glue ear:
- Ear fullness
- Hearing loss
- Difficulty understanding speech
- Ear pain (in some cases)
How glue ear affects people:
Glue ear can cause a range of problems, from mild discomfort to severe hearing loss. Hearing loss caused by glue ear can interfere with speech and language development in children. In some cases, glue ear can also lead to ear infections.
Common conditions and problems for people with glue ear:
- Hearing loss
- Difficulty understanding speech
- Speech and language delays in children
- Ear infections
Why do people get glue ear?
The exact cause of glue ear is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including:
- Blockage of the eustachian tube: The eustachian tube is a tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. When the eustachian tube is blocked, fluid can build up in the middle ear.
- Upper respiratory infections: Upper respiratory infections, such as colds and the flu, can cause the eustachian tube to swell and become blocked.
- Allergies: Allergies can also cause the eustachian tube to swell and become blocked.
Genetics, lifestyle, and disease:
Genetics, lifestyle, and disease can all play a role in the development of glue ear.
- Genetics: Glue ear tends to run in families, suggesting that there is a genetic component to the condition.
- Lifestyle: Exposure to cigarette smoke can increase the risk of glue ear in children.
- Disease: Certain diseases, such as cleft palate and Down syndrome, can increase the risk of developing glue ear.
Who gets glue ear?
Glue ear is most common in children under the age of 3, but it can affect people of all ages. Children are at increased risk for glue ear because their eustachian tubes are shorter and narrower than adults' eustachian tubes. This makes it easier for fluid to build up in the middle ear.
How is glue ear diagnosed?
Glue ear is usually diagnosed based on a medical history and physical examination. Mr Khatwa will look at the eardrum with an otoscope, which is a lighted instrument. Mr Khatwa may also order a hearing test.
Diagnosis and treatment of glue ear:
Once Mr Khatwa has diagnosed glue ear, he will develop a treatment plan. The treatment plan will depend on the severity of the condition and the person's individual circumstances.
In some cases, glue ear will clear up on its own without treatment. However, if the condition is severe or does not clear up on its own, treatment may be necessary.
Some common treatment options for glue ear include:
- Watch and wait: In some cases, Mr Khatwa will simply recommend watching and waiting to see if the glue ear clears up on its own.
- Earwax removal: If earwax is blocking the eustachian tube, Mr Khatwa may remove it to help improve hearing.
- Antibiotics: If glue ear is caused by an ear infection, Mr Khatwa may prescribe antibiotics.
- Grommets: Grommets are small tubes that are placed in the eardrum to help drain fluid and prevent ear infections.
Lifestyle changes:
There are a few lifestyle changes that can help to reduce the risk of glue ear:
- Avoid exposing children to cigarette smoke.
- Vaccinate children against the flu and pneumonia.
- Treat upper respiratory infections promptly.
If you think you or your child may have glue ear book an appointment with Mr Khatwa. He can diagnose the condition and recommend a treatment plan that is right for you or your child.
