Glue ear (otitis media with effusion) is very common in young children. Fluid builds up behind the eardrum and muffles hearing, often without pain.
Signs to look out for
Not responding when called, or turning the TV up
Speech delay or unclear speech
Frequent ear infections
Behaviour changes or poor concentration at kindergarten or school
Balance problems or clumsiness
Does glue ear always need treatment?
Many cases clear up on their own within three months, so a period of monitoring is common. If it persists and affects hearing, speech or learning, grommets may be recommended.
What are grommets?
Grommets are tiny ventilation tubes placed in the eardrum under a short general anaesthetic. They let air into the middle ear so fluid can drain and hearing improves, often straight away.
After surgery
Most children are home the same day and back to normal within a day or two. Grommets usually fall out by themselves after 6 to 18 months as the eardrum heals.
Learn more on our General & Paediatric ENT page.
See an ENT specialist in Palmerston North
ENT Central is at 187 Broadway Avenue, Palmerston North. You can be referred by your GP or contact us directly. Call 0800 ENT DOC (368 362) or book an appointment online.
This article is general information only and is not a substitute for a medical assessment. If you have severe or sudden symptoms, contact your GP, call Healthline on 0800 611 116, or in an emergency call 111.
