Glue ear in children
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Glue ear is a condition where sticky fluid builds up in the middle ear, behind the eardrum. It can cause temporary hearing loss and is common in young children.
Key facts
- Many children with glue ear get better on their own within a few months.
- It can affect a child's speech, language, and learning if hearing loss lasts a long time.
- Treatment options include monitoring, hearing aids, or small tubes called grommets.
Yes, glue ear is very common in young children. About 1 in 5 children around age 2 will have glue ear at some point.
Glue ear most often affects children between the ages of 1 and 6, but it can happen at any age. It is less common in older children and adults.
Symptoms
- Severe ear pain that comes on suddenly
- High fever (over 38°C) with ear pain
- Pus or blood draining from the ear
- Stiff neck or vomiting along with ear symptoms
- ⚠Hearing loss that lasts more than a few weeks
- ⚠Child not meeting speech or developmental milestones
- ⚠Ear pain that does not go away with over-the-counter pain relief
Common symptoms
- Mild hearing loss that comes and goes
- Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy places
- Turning up the volume on TV or devices
- Trouble with balance or clumsiness
Symptoms in children
- Pulling or tugging at their ears
- Not paying attention or seeming distracted
- Talking louder than usual
- Delays in speech or language development
- Being irritable or having trouble sleeping
Symptoms in older adults
- Hearing loss that is often mistaken for age-related hearing loss
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Occasional ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
Causes
Main causes
- Eustachian tube dysfunction: the tube that drains fluid from the middle ear becomes blocked or does not work well, often after a cold or ear infection.
- Repeated ear infections can lead to glue ear.
Risk factors
- Young age (especially 1 to 3 years old)
- Attending daycare or nursery
- Being bottle-fed rather than breastfed
- Exposure to tobacco smoke at home
- Having a family member with glue ear or ear infections
- Seasonal allergies or nasal congestion
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- Signs of a new ear infection (severe pain, fever, ear discharge)
- Hearing loss that worsens suddenly
Book a routine appointment if:
- Hearing problems that last more than 3 months
- Concerns about your child's speech, learning, or behavior
- Your child often pulls at their ears or seems to have trouble hearing
Diagnosis
A doctor can often diagnose glue ear by looking into the ear with a special tool called an otoscope. They may also use a puff of air to check how the eardrum moves.
Tests that may be done
- Otoscopy: a doctor uses a light to see inside the ear
- Tympanometry: a test that measures how well the eardrum moves
- Hearing test (audiometry): to check how well your child hears different sounds
What to expect at your appointment
The doctor will ask about symptoms, look inside the ears, and may refer your child for a hearing test. These tests are painless and usually take about 30 minutes. Your child can go home right after.
Treatment
Treatment depends on how long the glue ear lasts, how much hearing loss it causes, and whether it affects your child's development. Many children improve without any treatment within 3 to 6 months.
Self-care at home
- Watch and wait: if symptoms are mild, monitor for 3 months before deciding on further action
- Encourage good hygiene to prevent colds: handwashing, avoiding sick people
- Make sure your child does not breathe in tobacco smoke
- Talk clearly and face your child when speaking to help them hear
Medical treatments
If glue ear persists and causes significant hearing loss, a doctor may suggest a procedure called grommet insertion. This involves putting tiny tubes in the eardrum to drain the fluid and improve hearing. In some cases, a hearing aid may be used temporarily. Antibiotics are not normally used for glue ear unless there is an active infection. Decongestants are not recommended.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery (grommets) is usually considered if glue ear has lasted more than 3 months with hearing loss, or if it is affecting your child's speech or school progress. The procedure is quick and done under general anaesthetic. Grommets usually fall out on their own after 6 to 12 months.
Living with this condition
If your child has glue ear, you can help by speaking clearly, getting their attention before talking, and reducing background noise. Keep an eye on their hearing and development, and let their school or nursery know so they can help, too.
Lifestyle tips
- Avoid exposure to tobacco smoke
- Keep your child away from people with colds if possible
- Encourage breastfeeding if you can, as it may reduce risk
- Use a humidifier at night if the air is dry
Diet and exercise
A healthy diet and regular exercise help support your child's overall health and immune system. There is no specific diet for glue ear.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Hearing problems can sometimes make children frustrated or withdrawn, especially if they cannot keep up in conversations. Reassure your child and seek help from a speech and language therapist if needed. Talk to your doctor or health visitor if you have concerns.
Prevention
It is not always possible to prevent glue ear, but you can reduce the risk. Avoiding tobacco smoke, breastfeeding, and treating allergies may help. Getting recommended vaccines can prevent infections that sometimes lead to glue ear.
Vaccines
The pneumococcal vaccine and the annual flu vaccine can help prevent ear infections that may trigger glue ear. Make sure your child is up to date with their routine vaccinations.
Screening programmes
Newborn hearing screening checks for hearing problems at birth, but it does not specifically screen for glue ear. Routine hearing checks in early childhood may detect glue ear if it is causing hearing loss.
Complications
If left untreated
- Persistent hearing loss that can affect speech and language development
- Learning difficulties at school
- Behavioral problems due to frustration or not hearing instructions
- Rarely, a change in the eardrum called atelectasis or retraction pocket, which may need treatment
Long-term outlook
Most children with glue ear get better on their own, and their hearing returns to normal. If treatment is needed, it is usually very effective. With proper support, there are rarely long-term problems. Your child can expect to lead a full, active life.
Find support
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.