Glue Ear Causes & Treatment

Glue ear is a persistent condition in children in which there is a build-up of sticky fluid in the middle ear. It may be caused by chronic nose or throat infection, but can also be due to allergies or exposure to draughts. It may also be associated with chronically enlarged tonsils and adenoids, causing Eustachian tube obstruction. Glue ear does not cause any pain but does impair normal hearing. This in turn can lead to other problems, such as falling behind in class, since hearing is essential for speech development and learning.

CAUTION
Severe inattention among children under two years could well be due to partial deafness caused by glue ear. It is essential that this is investigated in order to avoid long-term speech, comprehension, and intellectual impairment.

Symptoms
• hearing impairment

TREATMENT 

Chinese Herbalism 
Herbs to reduce inflammation and mucus (phlegm) would be Sheng di Huang or Chinese senega root/ Polygala.

Traditional Home and Folk Remedies 
Drink lemon and honey or cider vinegar to clear the mucus and to strengthen the immune system.

Herbalism
Clean away discharge with a warm infusion of herbs such as chamomile or golden seal, which are antiseptic. Herbal remedies to boost the immune system include chamomile, echinacea, peppermint, and wild indigo. Herbs to help clear the catarrh include elderflowers, euphrasia, golden rod, and hyssop. Herbs which are able to reduce catarrh include golden rod, ground ivy, and elderflower. 

Aromatherapy 
Dilute essential oils of lavender, chamomile, eucalyptus, or rosewood in a light carrier oil. Warm and massage around the ear and neck. 

Homeopathy 
Kali mur., when there are cracking sounds in the affected ear, accompanied by swollen glands in the neck. Lycopodium, when there is deafness and a roaring sound is experienced in the affected ear.  Pulsatilla, for a full feeling in the ear, and weepiness. Mercurius, when there is thick, smelly discharge.

Vitamins and Minerals 
Chronic infection can be caused by a build-up of catarrh. Reduce consumption of dairy produce and any other possible allergens, including wheat. Take cod liver oil and vitamin C to give a boost to the immune system.