Glue Ear Treatment Melbourne
Glue ear, also known as otitis media with effusion, occurs when fluid builds up in the middle ear behind the eardrum. This condition can reduce hearing and is particularly common in children, although adults can also be affected. At ENT Specialist Melbourne, assessment focuses on identifying the cause of persistent fluid and determining its impact on hearing and development. Symptoms may include muffled hearing, speech delay in children, or a feeling of fullness in the ear.
When Glue Ear Needs Specialist Assessment
Glue ear should be assessed when fluid in the middle ear persists for several weeks, causes hearing changes, or affects speech and learning in children. In some cases, it develops after recurrent ear infections or upper respiratory illness. While some cases resolve naturally, persistent or recurrent fluid may require specialist evaluation. Early assessment helps prevent long-term hearing or developmental impacts, particularly in children.
Glue ear develops when the eustachian tube does not function properly, preventing normal drainage of fluid from the middle ear. This can occur after infections, during periods of frequent colds, or due to anatomical differences in children.
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Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
Eustachian tube dysfunction is the most common cause of glue ear. When the tube does not open properly, fluid becomes trapped in the middle ear, leading to hearing reduction and pressure symptoms.
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After Ear Infections
Glue ear often develops following an ear infection, when residual fluid remains in the middle ear after the infection has resolved. This can lead to ongoing hearing issues even after pain and fever improve.
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Childhood Anatomy and Upper Respiratory Illness
Children are more prone to glue ear due to the shape and function of their eustachian tubes. Frequent colds or enlarged adenoids can also contribute to fluid build-up and recurrent symptoms.
About Mr Eduard Pudel
Mr Eduard Pudel is a Melbourne-based ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon with FRACS qualification and extensive experience managing middle ear conditions in both children and adults. Since establishing ENT Specialist Melbourne in 2008, he has provided specialist care for glue ear, hearing concerns and recurrent ear disease.
His clinical expertise includes diagnosis and management of otitis media with effusion, recurrent ear infections and surgical treatment options such as grommets when required. He also works at major Victorian hospitals including Monash Cancer Centre and the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, managing complex ENT conditions.
During consultations, he explains glue ear in simple terms so patients and families understand how fluid affects hearing and what treatment options are most appropriate for long-term outcomes.
Supporting Healthy Hearing and Speech Development
Diagnosis, Hearing Assessment and Treatment Options
Diagnosis of glue ear involves a detailed examination of the eardrum and assessment of middle ear function. Hearing tests are commonly performed to determine the degree of hearing reduction and its impact. In some cases, tympanometry or other diagnostic tools are used to confirm fluid presence.
Treatment depends on severity and duration. Many cases are monitored over time, particularly in mild or early presentations. Persistent cases may be treated with interventions such as grommets to ventilate the middle ear and restore hearing. Management is tailored to the individual, particularly in children where hearing and speech development are key considerations.
Supporting Healthy Hearing and Speech Development
If you suspect glue ear due to reduced hearing, recurrent ear infections or speech concerns in a child, or ongoing muffled hearing in an adult, specialist assessment can help clarify the cause. ENT Specialist Melbourne provides comprehensive evaluation and management of middle ear fluid conditions. A GP referral is usually required.
Enquire today to arrange an assessment and receive clear guidance on next steps.
FAQ
Enquire today to discuss your symptoms and our team will guide you through the next steps for assessment and treatment.