Understanding Glue Ear: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Glue ear goes by several names, including otitis media, otitis media with effusion, or serous otitis media. It is a thick, glue-like fluid that builds up in the middle ear where there should be air instead.

Main Cause

• Glue ear occurs when the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the nasal cavity, is blocked. This doesn't allow proper air flow, and the inner ear becomes inflamed and secretes a thick fluid (thus the name "glue ear").

How It Works

• When the Eustachian tube is blocked, a vacuum is created. This vacuum sucks fluid into the middle ear. The Eustachian tube may be blocked from an obstruction or inflammation of the inner ear. Inflammation leads to bacteria buildup.

Who Is Affected

• Children are more likely to get glue ear because their Eustachian tubes are smaller and more horizontal than an adult.

Environmental Causes

• The chances of glue ear occurring are heightened if in a home where someone smokes. Also, frequent ear infections can cause glue ear, as well as allergies.

Other Causes

• According to AARP, other things that can block the Eustachian tube and cause glue ear are sudden increases in air pressure and drinking on your back.