Glue ear is a common middle-ear condition in which fluid accumulates behind the eardrum without an active ear infection. It can cause muffled hearing, a feeling of blocked ears and, particularly in children, difficulties with speech, communication and learning. While some cases resolve naturally, persistent fluid can require assessment and treatment by an experienced ENT specialist.
For families searching for Glue ear in Mumbai, Dr. Shama Kovale provides specialized evaluation and treatment for ear conditions in children and adults at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. Her expertise includes ear disorders, pediatric ENT care, microsurgery of the ear and advanced ENT procedures.
Glue ear, medically known as otitis media with effusion, occurs when fluid builds up in the middle ear. The middle ear is the air-filled space behind the eardrum and normally needs adequate ventilation to maintain normal pressure.
When the Eustachian tube does not function properly, ventilation of the middle ear can become impaired. Fluid may then accumulate behind the eardrum. Because this fluid can become thick and sticky, the condition is commonly called “glue ear.”
Unlike an acute ear infection, glue ear may occur without severe pain or fever. The main concern is often reduced hearing caused by the fluid interfering with the normal movement of the eardrum and middle-ear structures.
Symptoms can differ between children and adults. In young children, hearing difficulties may be noticed by parents or teachers rather than being reported by the child.
Common signs include:
Because children may not realize that their hearing has changed, persistent inattentiveness or delayed responses to sounds should not automatically be considered behavioral problems.