ANSWERS: 1
  • Glue ear is a condition in which fluid builds up in the ear. This fluid is thick and sticky, causing it to impede the movement of the small bones in the middle ear. If the bones of the middle ear are not ale to vibrate properly sound is not transmitted to the inner ear and the brain.

    Prevalence

    EhealthMD.com reports that approximately one in 10 people get glue ear. Although anyone can develop glue ear, it mostly affects children between the ages of 2 and 5.

    Risk Factors

    Children who have recently had a cold, attend day care, live with smokers, who have a family history of glue ear or who have had glue ear before are at an increased risk for developing glue ear. Boys experience glue ear more often than girls.

    Effects of Glue Ear

    Glue ear can cause temporary hearing loss, delayed speech development in children and slow educational progress. Although it is rare, it is possible for glue ear to cause permanent damage to hearing.

    Glue Ear Versus Ear Infection

    Unlike ear infections, glue ear does not typically cause pain or fever.

    Treatment

    About 50 percent of glue ear cases resolve on their own within three months and 90 percent resolve within six months, according to ehealthMD.com. Because of this, many doctors simply wait and monitor the condition. Other treatment options may include the placement of ear tubes and adenoid removal.

    Source:

    EhealthMD: What Is Glue Ear?

    EhealthMD: How Is Glue Ear Treated?

    Deaf Service Center: What Is Glue Ear & What Causes Glue Ear?

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