What is Glue Ear?
Glue ear (also known as otitis media with effusion) is a build up of thick, sticky fluid in the middle ear space of one or both ears. This stops the eardrum from vibrating properly which can result in a hearing loss.
About four in every five children have at least one mild episode of glue ear in early childhood and it often clears up without treatment. However if glue ear does not clear up then it would need to be managed by an Audiologist and Ear Nose and Throat Specialist because glue ear can influence educational, behavioral and general development, sometimes with longer-term effects lasting several years.
What should I do if I suspect my child has glue ear?
If you are a parent and you suspect your child has a hearing difficulty or glue ear, trust your judgement and consult your family doctor - if possible, get an appointment close to a time when you are fairly sure that your child's hearing is affected.
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