Glue Ear mainly occurs in both ears and may be difficult to detect, since it is not painful doesn’t cause symptoms of an ear infection. Mostly it is due to a problem with the Eustachian tube that connects the middle ears to the back of the nose and throat.
The Eustachian tube normally plays an important role in maintaining equal air pressure between the outside and inside of the middle ear. When the tube becomes obstructed the air in the middle ear becomes absorbed, and the resulting vacuum draws fluid into the middle ear cavity from lining of ht ear (the mucosa)
Initially the fluid is thin and watery but eventually it becomes thick and tenacious, hence, the name “Glue Ear”. Because the middle ear is now filled with fluid rather than air, the haring is muffled. Obstruction of the tube may be due to repeated bacterial and viral upper respiratory track infections, enlarged adenoids or nasal allergy.
It is important to note that in children the Eustachian tube is more horizontal and smaller than in adults and this is one of the reasons why Glue Ear is relatively common in children.
Children are especially prone to Glue Ear because.
Of frequent colds and sore throats.
In children, the adenoids (lymph tissues at the back of the nose that help protect against infection) are more likely to be enlarged, blocking the opening of the Eustachian tubes.
SOME RESEARCHERS also believe children are at higher risk if exposed to cooler climes or a smoky environment. Children with genetic conditions such as Downs Syndrome may have smaller Eustachian tubes and are more susceptible to Glue Ear.
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