Acute and chronic ear conditions (Including ear Infections, ear discharge, and glue ear)

 

What is Glue Ear?

Glue ear, also known as Otitis Media with Effusion (OME), is a common condition where the middle ear becomes filled with a thick, sticky fluid instead of air. This fluid can reduce how well the eardrum moves, leading to temporary hearing loss. The underlying pathology is Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD).

Unlike ear infections, glue ear is usually painless, so it can go unnoticed—especially in children.

Signs Your Child Might Have Glue Ear

You might suspect glue ear if your child:

  • Does not respond when spoken to or frequently says “what?”

  • Seems to ignore you, especially when there is background noise

  • Has delayed or unclear speech

  • Turns up the volume on the TV or tablet

  • Is struggling at school or appears inattentive

Causes and Duration

Glue ear often develops after a cold or ear infection, but it can also occur on its own.

  • It is most common in young children (ages 1–6).

  • It may resolve on its own over a few months.

  • In some cases, especially if persistent or affecting speech development, treatment is recommended.

Treatment Options

For some children, simply monitoring the condition ("watchful waiting") is appropriate. However, if glue ear continues for more than 3 months, or significantly affects hearing or speech development, treatment may be needed.

Grommet (ventilation tube insertion):

The most effective treatment is the insertion of grommets (also called ventilation tubes):

  • Grommets are tiny tubes placed in the eardrum during a short surgical procedure.

  • They allow air into the middle ear.

  • Hearing usually improves quickly after the procedure.

 

Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation:

A Gentle Fix for Blocked Ears

If you have ever felt your ears pop, click, or feel full—especially during flights or when you are sick—you might have Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD). This happens when the small tube that connects your middle ear to the back of your nose isn’t working properly. It can cause pressure, muffled hearing, pain, or fluid buildup in the ear.

What Is Balloon Dilation for ETD?

Balloon dilation is a simple, minimally invasive treatment designed to help open up your Eustachian tube and get things working again. It’s often done right in the clinic, and most people are back to their normal routine within a day or two.

What Happens During the Procedure?

    1. Going to Sleep
      You’ll be given general anaesthesia by an anaesthetist — usually through an IV or a breathing mask — so you’ll be fully asleep and won’t feel anything.

    2. Nasal Preparation
      While you’re asleep, the surgeon gently passes a small, flexible balloon catheter through your nose and into the Eustachian tube opening.

    3. Inflating the Balloon
      The balloon is slowly inflated with sterile fluid. This gently stretches and widens the Eustachian tube, helping to restore normal airflow and drainage.

    4. Holding and Deflating
      The balloon stays inflated for about 1–2 minutes, giving the tissue time to reshape. Then it's deflated and carefully removed.

    5. Waking Up
      Once everything is done, you’ll be taken to the recovery area to wake up from the anaesthetic under supervision.

    How Long Does It Take?

    The procedure itself usually takes 15–30 minutes, but you’ll be at the hospital for a few hours to allow time for preparation and recovery.

    What to Expect After Surgery

    • Most people go home the same day.

    • You may feel a bit tired or have a mild sore throat from the breathing tube used during anaesthesia.

    • Mild nasal stuffiness or ear pressure may occur but usually settles quickly.

    • You’ll need a support person to take you home and stay with you for 24 hours.

    • A follow-up appointment will be arranged to check your progress.

    Is It Safe?

    Yes — balloon dilation is considered safe and low risk, especially when done under anaesthetic by an experienced ENT surgeon. Serious complications are rare.

     

What Are the Benefits?

  • Better Ear Drainage & Pressure Relief
    Helps your ears clear naturally and feel more comfortable.

  • Fewer Symptoms
    Many people notice less ear popping, pressure, and improved hearing.

  • Quick Recovery
    It's less invasive than traditional surgery, with minimal downtime.

  • Long-Term Relief
    Studies show that most patients have lasting improvement and are happy with the results.

After the Procedure

  • Most people are back at work or school within a day or two.

  • Some may feel mild discomfort or stuffiness for a short time.

  • Your doctor will schedule a few follow-ups to make sure everything’s healing well.

If you’ve been living with blocked ears or pressure that just won’t go away, balloon dilation might be a gentle and effective solution.

Other Ear Conditions

We also diagnose and treat other acute and chronic ear problems, including:

  • Ear infections (otitis media and otitis externa/swimmer’s ear)

  • Recurring ear discharge

  • Perforated eardrums

  • Chronic ear disease or cholesteatoma

When to Seek Help

If you notice any of the above signs, or if your child has frequent ear infections or ongoing hearing issues, consult your ENT specialist. Early assessment and treatment can prevent long-term impacts on hearing and development.