Grommets For Ear Glue

Grommets For Ear Glue

Glue ear is a condition that affects children and adults, but is most commonly found in patients under the age of 15. Glue ear is caused by congestion in the inner ear that causes muffled hearing and can affect balance.

Ear Glue Defined

Glue ear is caused by a build up of a dense, sticky substance inside the Eustachian tube.The lining of the ear sweats continuously. The fluid that is accumulated normally drains when the ear 'pop's or as we swallow and yawn. If an infection is present, the fluid may be unable to drain correctly causing a build-up of the dense sticky substance. The congestion in the ear causes the hearing loss.

Young children susceptible to ear infections and people who work in a smoky environment are more at risk.

Symptoms And Treatment Of Glue Ear

Glue ear is not a serious condition and does not cause permanent hearing loss. The symptoms of glue ear are similar to an ear infection: muffled hearing, earache and a temperature are common symptoms. The balance may also be affected as hearing and balance are connected.

If symptoms of glue ear persist, doctors may recommend grommets to be inserted into the ear in a minor operation. Grommets are used to treat glue ear. Grommets are small ventilation tubes that work to hold the ear channels open and drain any fluid. The grommet keeps the ear channels open allowing air to enter and fluid to leave. Grommets are inserted into the eardrum in a simple, day-patient operation and the grommet falls out naturally within 4 months of surgery.

Grommets involves keeping the ear free of water until the sticky substance dissolves on its own. Ensuring the ear is not immersed in water prevents any infection being pushed further into the ear and causing a larger problem.