Glue ear: Symptoms, treatments, risks and causes

What is glue ear?

Glue ear, medically known as otitis media with effusion, happens when fluid builds up in the middle of the ear behind the eardrum. 

Glue ear is a common condition, particularly in children, but it can also affect adults, especially those who experience frequent upper respiratory infections or have allergies.

What are the symptoms of glue ear?

Common symptoms include:

• muffled hearing
• a feeling of fullness in the ear
• occasional mild earache
• balance problems
• a ringing or buzzing sound

What is the treatment for glue ear?

Glue ear typically resolves on its own within a few weeks, so it is usually best to simply wait.

However, if it does not resolve on its own, you should speak to your GP, who may recommend treatments such as:

• Autoinflation: This technique involves blowing up a balloon through each nostril to help open the Eustachian tubes and allow the fluid to drain naturally.
• Nasal decongestants: These can help reduce swelling in the nasal passages and ease the blockage of the Eustachian tubes. Common options include saline sprays or antihistamine tablets.
• Grommets: These are small tubes inserted into the eardrum to allow air to enter the middle ear and help fluid to drain out more effectively. This is typically considered when glue ear persists or recurs frequently.

What causes glue ear?

Glue ear is primarily caused by a blockage in the Eustachian tube, which prevents proper drainage of fluid from the middle ear. This fluid, if not drained, can build up behind the eardrum.

However, there are other causes of congestion related hearing problems including:

• Allergies: Pollen, dust, and pet dander can inflame the Eustachian tubes.
• Smoking: Tobacco smoke can irritate the middle ear's lining, leading to fluid build-up.
• Common colds, flu, or other respiratory infections: These can lead to congestion and swelling of the Eustachian tubes, trapping fluid in the middle ear.
• Adenoids: Enlarged adenoids can block the Eustachian tubes, especially in children, preventing normal drainage of fluid from the middle ear.
• Climate and environmental factors: Extreme cold or humid environments can make the condition worse.

Should I wear my hearing aids if I have glue ear?

You can continue to wear your hearing aids with glue ear.

While the hearing aids will help to improve your hearing, it's important to remember that glue ear may still affect your overall hearing quality regardless of whether you are wearing hearing aids or not.

Can I swim with glue ear?

Swimming with glue ear is generally safe because the eardrum acts as a barrier that keeps water from reaching the middle ear, where the fluid buildup occurs.

Can I fly with glue ear?

Flying with glue ear can be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous due to changes in air pressure.

It’s a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider for strategies to manage ear pressure during flights.

Is glue ear hereditary?

There is no definitive evidence to suggest that glue ear is hereditary.

However, certain factors associated with glue ear, such as allergies and a predisposition to ear infections, can run in families.

Additionally, having smaller Eustachian tubes, which may contribute to the condition, could also be a trait inherited within families.

Is glue ear considered a disability?

Glue ear is not classified as a disability, but its effects on hearing can temporarily impact daily activities and quality of life.

Can glue ear cause tinnitus?

Glue ear can make tinnitus appear worse.

This happens because the fluid in your ear makes it harder for you to hear other sounds.

This then makes your tinnitus sound subjectively louder than before. Once the glue ear is resolved, the tinnitus sound should return to its normal state.

Can glue ear cause vertigo, dizziness, headaches or balance problems?

No, glue ear itself does not directly cause vertigo, dizziness, headaches, or balance problems.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, they might be due to another underlying condition. It's important to consult your GP to determine the cause of these symptoms and receive appropriate treatment.

Is glue ear painful?

While typically uncomfortable, glue ear is usually not severely painful.