Overview
Middle ear effusion (Glue Ear) is the buildup of non-infected fluid behind the eardrum. It's common in children after a cold or ear infection, and in adults, it may be related to Eustachian tube dysfunction or other underlying issues.
Common symptoms
- Muffled hearing or a feeling of "fullness" in the ear
- Crackling or popping sounds when swallowing
- Delayed speech development in children (if chronic)
- Ear discomfort, although pain is often mild or absent
When to see an ENT
- Hearing loss that lasts more than 6 weeks
- Difficulty with speech or learning in children
- Persistent ear pressure or "popping"
- Unilateral (one-sided) ear blockage in adults
What we do
- Otoscopy and microscopy to examine the eardrum
- Tympanometry to confirm the presence of fluid and assess eardrum movement
- Audiogram (hearing test) to measure the impact on hearing
- Nasopharyngeal examination in adults to rule out blockage at the Eustachian tube opening
Treatment options
- Observation (watchful waiting) as many cases resolve on their own
- Nasal sprays and auto-inflation techniques
- Grommet (Ear Tube) insertion: Small tubes placed in the eardrum to drain fluid and equalize pressure
- Adenoidectomy in children if enlarged adenoids contribute to the problem