Glue Ear in Children – Symptoms, Treatment and When to See an ENT Specialist
Glue ear (otitis media with effusion) is one of the most common reasons children are referred to an ENT specialist. It occurs when sticky fluid collects behind the eardrum, reducing hearing and sometimes affecting speech, behaviour and learning.
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, The Harbour Suite at Queen Alexandra Hospital, and Medicana Winchester, we assess and treat glue ear for families across Portsmouth, Southampton, Winchester and Salisbury. Early identification and treatment can make a big difference to a child’s development.
👂 What Is Glue Ear?
Glue ear happens when fluid builds up in the middle ear space.
This space should normally be filled with air, allowing the eardrum and tiny hearing bones to move freely.
When fluid becomes thick or sticky, it reduces movement and causes temporary hearing loss.
Glue ear is especially common in children aged 2–7 due to:
Smaller, less developed Eustachian tubes
Frequent colds
Enlarged adenoids
Allergies or chronic nasal blockage
Most children will experience at least one episode.
📌 Common Symptoms of Glue Ear
Children with glue ear may show:
Reduced hearing
Asking for repetition or turning the TV up
Speech delay or unclear speech
Daydreaming or poor concentration
Behaviour changes
Balance issues
Mild ear discomfort
Frequent colds or nasal congestion
Hearing levels fluctuate, so symptoms may be worse on some days than others.
🔍 How Glue Ear Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis is simple and child-friendly, involving:
ENT examination
Otoscopy to view the eardrum
Tympanometry, which gently measures middle ear pressure
Paediatric hearing test (audiogram)
These assessments are offered at Hampshire ENT Clinics, The Harbour Suite at QA Hospital, and Medicana Winchester.
🩺 Does Glue Ear Go Away on Its Own?
In many cases, yes.
About 50–60% of children improve within 3 months, especially if the glue ear is linked to a cold or winter infections.
Your ENT specialist may recommend:
Watchful waiting
Treating allergies or nasal congestion
Hearing tests at intervals
However, if hearing loss persists, affects development, or leads to significant symptoms, treatment is recommended.
🛠️ Treatment Options for Glue Ear
1. Grommet Insertion (Ventilation Tubes)
The most effective treatment for persistent glue ear.
A tiny tube is inserted into the eardrum to ventilate the middle ear.
Benefits include:
Immediate improvement in hearing
Reduced ear infections
Better speech and learning
Better behaviour and listening skills
It is a short day-case procedure under general anaesthetic, commonly performed in children.
2. Adenoidectomy (When Helpful)
If enlarged adenoids contribute to glue ear or nasal blockage, removing them can reduce fluid build-up and improve long-term results.
This is often combined with grommet insertion.
3. Hearing Support
Temporary hearing aids may be helpful in selected cases — especially for children who are not yet suitable for surgery.
🌟 How Treatment Helps
Parents often report that after grommet insertion, their child:
Hears clearly again
Speaks more confidently
Follows instructions better
Is less frustrated
Shows improved attention and engagement at school
Many families notice immediate positive changes.
🏥 Why Families Choose Hampshire ENT, The Harbour Suite at QA Hospital & Medicana Winchester
Consultant-led paediatric ENT care
Experience in grommet surgery and adenoidectomy
Local, accessible care in Portsmouth, Southampton, Winchester & Salisbury
Modern paediatric facilities
Clear communication and family-focused support
👉 If you are concerned about your child’s hearing, speech or behaviour, contact Hampshire ENT Clinics or Medicana Winchester for a glue ear assessment.