GLUE EAR
Otitis Media with Effusion (OME), which is commonly known as “glue ear.” Following an episode of Acute Middle Ear Infection (Acute Otitis Media), fluid may remain in the middle ear for several weeks, leading to a condition known as Otitis Media with Effusion (OME).
While not an acute infection, OME can still impair hearing and requires monitoring. It is particularly prevalent among children but can also affect adults. The fluid is often thick and sticky, resembling glue, hence the colloquial term.
DIAGNOSIS
Diagnosing OME usually involves a combination of clinical history, physical examination, and sometimes additional tests:
CLINICAL HISTORY
The patient often presents with hearing difficulties, a feeling of fullness in the ear, and sometimes, balance issues. However, pain is usually not a prominent symptom in OME.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
Dr Sandeep Uppal would typically use an otoscope or a microscope to examine the ear. Signs of fluid or an immobile or retracted eardrum are indicative of OME.
TYMPANOMETRY
This test can be performed to assess how well the eardrum is moving and to confirm the presence of fluid in the middle ear.
AUDIOMETRY
A hearing test might be recommended to assess the level of hearing loss, if any.
TREATMENT
Treatment for OME often varies depending on the severity of the condition, patient age, and associated symptoms. Here are some common treatment options:
WATCHFUL WAITING
In many cases, especially in children, the condition resolves on its own. Dr Sandeep and his team may adopt a ‘watch and wait’ approach, monitoring the situation over time.
MEDICAL TREATMENT
In some cases, a course of nasal decongestants or antihistamines may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms. However, the efficacy of these medications in treating OME is debated.
VENTILATION TUBES (GROMMETS)
For persistent or severe cases, Dr Sandeep may recommend the insertion of ventilation tubes, known as grommets, into the eardrum. This allows the fluid to drain, alleviating symptoms and preventing complications.
ADENOIDECTOMY
Sometimes large adenoids at the back of the nose block the Eustachian tubes, which in turn contributes to glue ear. In such patient’s removal of the adenoids is advised, especially if the patient has recurring episodes of OME and/or other nasal symptoms.
HEARING AIDS
In cases where OME leads to significant hearing loss, hearing aids may be recommended to improve auditory function. Often this is a temporary measure to give the ear enough time to recover spontaneously.
POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS OF OTITIS MEDIA WITH EFFUSION
Dr Sandeep is particularly vigilant when it comes to managing complications that may arise from Otitis Media with Effusion (OME). While OME is often a self-limiting condition that may resolve on its own, there are instances where it can lead to complications. Understanding these potential complications is crucial for providing effective patient care.
HEARING LOSS
One of the most immediate complications is a temporary reduction in hearing. This can be particularly problematic for children in developmental stages, affecting speech and academic performance.
SPEECH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DELAYS
In children, prolonged OME and resultant hearing loss can lead to delays in speech development, as well as other developmental milestones.
BALANCE ISSUES
The accumulation of fluid in the middle ear can affect the equilibrium, leading to balance problems or dizziness.
TYMPANIC MEMBRANE RETRACTION OR ATROPHY
Over time, the pressure from the accumulated fluid can cause the eardrum to retract or become thin, which could potentially result in permanent damage.
CHRONIC SUPPURATIVE OTITIS MEDIA (CSOM)
In some cases, OME can progress to a more severe form of ear infection that involves persistent drainage from the ear.
CHOLESTEATOMA
Rarely, chronic OME can lead to the formation of a cholesteatoma, a skin cyst that can grow and destroy the bones of the middle ear, leading to hearing loss and other serious complications.
SOCIAL AND BEHAVIOURAL IMPACT
Especially in children, recurrent episodes of OME and associated hearing loss can result in behavioural issues or decreased social interaction.
CLEAR EARS, BRIGHT FUTURES!
Glue ear doesn’t have to stick around. Dr. Sandeep Uppal and our team are experts at making ears clear and healthy. We check ears early to catch any gooey problems and fix them with the best care, like tiny tubes (grommets) or other helpful treatments.
Our team, including hearing and speech pros, works together like a superhero squad for your ears, making sure you hear well and learn sounds and words just right.
If you think glue ear is messing with hearing or talking, come see us. We’re all about keeping ears and speech clear as a bell. Book your spot with Dr Sandeep’s team now and get ready for clear hearing!