Glue Ear
Glue ear is a condition that affects many children and is associated with fluid accumulation within the middle ear…
If your child experiences consistent fluid within the middle ear for a period of three months or longer, it is important to look at intervening surgical options. Glue ear is not an uncommon problem for children who suffer from the common cold or flu, and generally lasts only about a month or so. It is when this issue is more persistent that surgical options may be beneficial.
How does glue ear affect my child?
Glue ear blocks the ear channels and makes it much more difficult for your child to hear or listen. This can be critical for a much younger child, who is still developing language and sound skills. Other effects this condition may have on your child includes:
- The child becoming more noisy, frustrated or vocal (in order to try to hear themselves)
- The child loses balance and becomes clumsy, which can be a result of a low-grade inflammation in conjunction with glue ear which affects balance and equilibrium
- An association with other medical conditions for example middle ear infections or chronic suppurative conditions within the middle ear
What are my options?
At ENT Surgeons of Melbourne, we are able to perform surgery on your child’s inner ear in order to clear the blockage and drain any fluid build-up.
Other non-surgical options may be available to you, such as medications, antibiotics or even hearing aids. Your specialist ear, nose and throat surgeon will be able to discuss these alternatives with you during your comprehensive consultation at our Melbourne medical clinic.
