Glue ear is a common condition in children. The middle part of the ear fills with fluid, which causes temporary hearing loss. The NHS says it usually clears up within 3 months, but parents should see a GP about any hearing problems.
This guide covers the symptoms of glue ear, when to see a GP, the treatments the NHS describes, and where Australian families can get a children’s hearing assessment.
Symptoms of glue ear
The most common symptom is temporary hearing loss, which can affect both ears at the same time. Other symptoms can include:
- earache or ear pain
- ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)
- problems with balance
Glue ear is much more common in children, but adults with glue ear have the same symptoms. If it lasts a long time, it can affect a child’s speech development and progress at school.
Signs of a hearing problem in children
The NHS lists these signs that a child may have a hearing problem:
- speaking loudly
- being hard to understand
- asking people to repeat what they say
- asking for the TV or music to be turned up loudly
- struggling to hear people who are far away
- becoming easily distracted when people are talking
- finding it hard to concentrate, or seeming tired and irritable because listening is harder
When to see a GP
The NHS advises a GP visit if a child has signs of a hearing problem. A GP can usually tell whether it is glue ear by looking for fluid inside the ear with a small scope and light. The NHS says this should not be painful.
If glue ear has lasted more than 3 months, the child may be referred to a specialist for hearing tests, which show how severe any hearing loss is and what is causing it.
Treatment the NHS describes
Glue ear is not always treated. The NHS says a GP will usually wait to see whether symptoms improve, because there is no effective medicine for it and it often clears within 3 months. A child may be monitored for up to a year.
Autoinflation
The GP may suggest autoinflation while waiting. This helps fluid drain from the ear. It is done by blowing up a special balloon through one nostril at a time, or by swallowing while holding the nostrils closed. It has to be done several times a day, so it is not usually recommended for children under 3.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics may be prescribed if glue ear causes an ear infection.
Hospital treatment
A child may be referred to a hospital specialist if glue ear is affecting their learning and development, if they already had severe hearing loss before glue ear, or if they have Down’s syndrome or a cleft lip and palate, because glue ear is less likely to clear by itself in these cases. The two main options are temporary hearing aids and grommets, which are small tubes placed in the eardrum during surgery.
The NHS says a grommet usually falls out within 6 to 12 months as the ear improves. The specialist will help you choose the best option.
Children’s hearing tests in Australia
Revive Hearing is an audiology clinic in Tasmania, with locations in Beaconsfield, South Launceston, Lilydale and Legana. It lists kids’ hearing tests among its services. Visit revivehearing.com.au or call 0484 864 941. Check the clinic’s current services before booking.
Frequently asked questions
Does glue ear always need treatment?
No. The NHS says it is often not treated, because it usually clears within 3 months. A GP will monitor the child.
Is the GP examination painful?
The NHS says the examination with a small scope should not be painful.
When should a child be referred to a specialist?
The NHS says a child may be referred if glue ear has lasted more than 3 months, if it is affecting learning and development, or if the child has a condition that makes it less likely to clear by itself.
Sources
- NHS, “Glue ear,” Health A to Z, page last reviewed 5 June 2023: nhs.uk
- Revive Hearing, services and clinic locations, accessed for this article: revivehearing.com.au
This article is general information, not medical advice. It does not replace an assessment by a GP, paediatrician or audiologist. If your child has a high temperature, severe ear pain, discharge from the ear, or sudden hearing loss, seek medical care promptly.
