Simple Cure For Glue Ear

Experts say that kids who are suffering from glue ear could ease their pain by blowing up balloons through their noses.

16:40 28 July 2015

Glue ear is a common medical condition that affects about 200,000 children in the United Kingdom every year. It is characterised by the middle ear filled with fluid causing severe pain and hearing loss. Scientists now claim that the condition can be reversed by simply having the child blow up a small nose balloon. This, they say, will open up the Eustachian tubes and promote drainage of thick fluid filling the middle ear.

 

Lead researcher Dr Ian Williamson, of the University of Southampton, said: “Unfortunately, all available medical treatments for otitis media with effusion such as antibiotics, antihistamines, decongestants and intranasal steroids, are ineffective and have unwanted effects, and therefore cannot be recommended.

 

“Autoinflation is a simple, low-cost procedure that can be taught to young children in a primary care setting with a reasonable expectation of compliance.

 

 

“We have found use of autoinflation in young, school-aged children with otitis media with effusion to be feasible, safe and effective in clearing effusions, and in improving important ear symptoms, concerns and related quality of life over a three-month watch-and-wait period.”