Skip to main content

Featured post

Child Mouth Breathing & Blocked Nose Treatment London & Essex | Mr Gaurav Kumar

  Child Mouth Breathing and Nasal Blockage:  Could Enlarged Adenoids Be the Cause? It is a scenario familiar to many parents across East London and Essex: you look over at your child while they are watching television or deeply asleep, and notice their mouth is constantly open. They seem to struggle to breathe quietly through their nose, their sleep is heavy and noisy, and they sound permanently congested—even when they don't have a cold. When over-the-counter allergy syrups and nasal sprays fail to clear the blockage, parents frequently contact their GPs in search of answers. Chronically open-mouthed breathing is rarely just a habit; it is typically a sign of a physical upper airway obstruction. This guide explores why persistent nasal blockage happens in children, the role of enlarged adenoids , and the localised private care pathways available to help your child breathe easy. The Hidden Obstruction: What are Adenoids? While parents can easily spot swollen tonsils at the bac...

Glue ear





Why does glue ear happen?
The ear has three main parts ear canal, the middle ear where small bones of hearing sit and the inner ear which has nerves to send the signal to the brain.
The middle ear is connected to the back of the nose with a tube called the Eustachian tube. The Eustachian tube can get blocked with adenoids, allergy or sometimes due to tube dysfunction. The Eustachian tube can also dysfunction in children with a cleft palate or a genetic condition such as downs syndrome. All this can lead to a collection of thick fluid in the middle ear, and this is called glue ear.

Glue ear in babies?
Babies have smaller and straighter eustachian tube making them more vulnerable to glue ears. The good news is this is intermittent most of the time. Breastfeeding in a sitting position helps and also passes on natural immunity from mother to children. Evidence show children growing up in a smoky environment tend to get more frequent glue ear. Children who have an allergy to pets, house dust mites or pollens can get glue ears. It is crucial to check allergy and treat it in such children.


How does glue ear affect a child's development?
Persistent Glue ear can have a direct and indirect impact on a child's behaviour and speech-language development. The direct impact is as a child is unable to hear words clearly it affects vocabulary development and leads to limited attention span. It can also affect the balance in younger children. Persistent glue can have a direct impact on school performance and affect sleep due to a recurrent earaches. The rate of ear infections is higher in children with glue ears. Long-term impact due to persistent glue ear and eustachian tube dysfunction can lead to eardrum retraction, ossicular (small bones of hearing) erosion, eardrum perforation, and cholesteatoma formation.

Can Glue ear mimic Autism and ADHD?
Autism spectrum disorder presents before the age of three when a child has difficulty in communication, interaction, and interests. Glue ear is looked for as part of the investigation and diagnosis. Glue ear can affect a child's hearing, and a child may lose interest in interacting and communicating with carers. Treating hearing problems may support the team looking after such special children. ASD is treated with a multidisciplinary approach focusing on a child's communication skills, social interaction skills, and academic skills.
https://www.autism.org.uk/

How can I prevent glue ear?
Glue ears are more common in children who suffer from allergies, adenoids or live in a house with smoke. Things you can do to help are breastfeeding newborns, bottle feeding in propped-up position and keeping the house smoke-free.

How can I pick up if my child has a Glue ear?
Generally, the first symptom is hearing impairment. Babies may not respond when called and older children may ask you to repeat things. You may notice that the child is keeping TV volume unusually high. Older children may lose their concentration and focus. Some children may start complaining of ear pain and may start having ear infections.

What is the natural history of Glue ear?
50% of the cases of glue ear will resolve in three months. Once the glue ear resolves hearing should go back to normal. Children with persistent glue ears may start to have an impact on speech and development. Such kids need to be reviewed by specialists and management advice taken.

What can be done once we identify Glue ear in a Child?
Working together with parents, schools,  and ENT specialists we all can help a child with glue ear. Parents should understand in most cases the condition is temporary. It is important to talk to a child facing them, at a slow pace and without any background noise. Informing the nursery or school regarding the child's condition. School can help a child with teachers facing the child and the child sitting close to the teacher during lessons.

How is the diagnosis of glue ear made?
In children on suspicion of glue ear, they can be referred to Ear Nose Throat specialist for assessment and organizing the age-appropriate hearing test.
A special test called a tympanogram is done to support the clinical findings, and in most cases, watchful waiting is commenced. If a child has persistent glue ear, then treatment options include watchful wait, balloon treatment hearing aid or grommet insertion.

Can Balloon treatment help with Glue ear?
Balloon treatment also known as auto inflation can be tried in children from the age of 3. Auto inflation works on the principle of increasing air pressure at the back of the nose to open the eustachian tube. NICE recommends the use of Balloon auto-inflation during watchful waiting. Balloon auto-inflation is available commercially and on prescription from Otovent. https://www.otovent.co.uk/

Can my child have a hearing aid for glue ear?
Hearing aids can support a child with glue ear during the wait and watch period. If the child has a genetic condition like Down's syndrome, then a hearing aid may be recommended as compared to grommets. Few considerations to remember like sports activity, school and the use of batteries.
https://www.ndcs.org.uk/hearingaidsFAQS#contentblock12


Mr Gaurav Kumar

Ear Nose Throat Consultant

To Book An Appointment

Call 07494914140

Email   entappointmentuk@gmail.com



Book Appointment Online




Disclaimer: For general information only, always seek medical advice from your treating consultant.



Popular Post

Coblation Tonsillectomy

Hi Guys, Let us talk about your tonsils and adenoids. Tonsils and adenoids are part of the immune system and help fight germs. Sometimes these tissues become infected and is called tonsillitis. When you have tonsillitis, you can feel sore to eat and drink, have the temperature, and can even have difficulty in breathing. This can be treated by a procedure called Tonsillectomy. Mr Kumar may advise you to have your tonsils removed if you have tonsil stones, if your airway is blocked due to large tonsils making you choke at night ie sleep apnoea or one tonsil is bigger than other. Tonsillectomy can be done by the traditional techniques using cold steel, electrocautery or coblation.  Cold steel and elctrocautery has moderate to severe pain in postoperative period. With new coblation technique, post operative pain is very low leading to quicker recovery.  Coblation is an advanced technology that combines gentle radiofrequency energy with natural saline — to quickly, and safely r...
Read more

After your Epley manoeuvre — patient information leaflet

  What this leaflet tells you This leaflet explains what to expect after the Epley (canalith repositioning) manoeuvre for posterior-canal BPPV, what you should and shouldn’t do, and when to seek help.   1. Quick summary — what the Epley did The manoeuvre moves tiny particles (otoconia) out of the balance canal of your inner ear and back into a place where they don’t cause spinning (vertigo). Most people feel much better after one or a few treatments. However BPPV can come back (recurrence is common).   2. How you may feel immediately afterwards You may feel dizzy or off-balance for a few minutes to a few hours; nausea is possible.   Some people feel better straightaway; others get gradual improvement over days.   Rarely ,you may have brief recurrences of vertigo — this does not always mean the manoeuvre failed.   3. Activity and posture — what the evidence says Good news: High-quality studies and recent guidelines show that strict he...
Read more

"Naseptin: Powerful Defence Against Nasal Bacteria!"

  Everything You Need to Know About Using Naseptin Nasal Cream   If you've been dealing with nasal issues, you may have come across Naseptin nasal cream as a potential solution. Whether you suffer from recurrent nasal infections (vestibulitis), nose bleeds or simply need some relief from nasal dryness, Naseptin can be a valuable aid. In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know about using Naseptin nasal cream to ensure you get the best results from this trusted product.   Unlocking the Power of Naseptin Nasal Cream: A Guide to Its Versatile Uses   Naseptin nasal cream, a powerful ally in nasal health, holds the key to treating infections caused by staphylococcal bacteria. This versatile cream offers much more than meets the eye, and we're here to shed light on its incredible benefits! 🌟 👃 Kicking Nose Infections to the Curb: Say goodbye to those troublesome nose infections! Naseptin comes to the rescue, targeting staphylococcal bacteria and...
Read more

Adult Tonsillectomy Recovery: Day-by-Day Guide After Tonsil Surgery

  Adult Tonsillectomy Recovery: What to Expect Day by Day Adult tonsillectomy can significantly improve quality of life for people struggling with recurrent tonsillitis, chronic sore throats or repeated throat infections. However, recovery after adult tonsil surgery is often more uncomfortable than many patients expect. Understanding the normal stages of recovery can help reduce anxiety and allow patients to prepare properly before surgery. This guide explains what adults commonly experience after tonsillectomy, how to support recovery safely, and when to seek urgent medical advice. Why is adult tonsillectomy recovery difficult? The tonsils sit in an area that moves constantly during swallowing, eating and speaking. After surgery, the throat heals gradually over approximately two weeks. Adults generally experience: Significant throat pain Pain when swallowing Ear pain (referred pain from the throat) Tiredness and reduced energy Disturbed sleep Temporary bad brea...
Read more

Septoplasty vs Septorhinoplasty: What’s the Difference and Which Surgery Do You Need?

  Septoplasty vs Septorhinoplasty: Understanding Your Nose Surgery Options Difficulty breathing through the nose can significantly affect sleep, exercise, work and overall quality of life. Some patients also feel unhappy with the appearance of their nose following injury, previous surgery or natural development. Two commonly discussed procedures are septoplasty and septorhinoplasty . Although the names sound similar, the operations are designed to treat different problems. This guide explains the differences between these procedures, when surgery may be appropriate, and what patients should expect during recovery. What is the nasal septum? The nasal septum is the internal wall that separates the two nasal passages. Ideally, it sits centrally and allows air to flow evenly through both sides of the nose. However, many people have a deviated septum , where the septum bends to one side. A deviated septum can cause: Persistent nasal blockage Difficulty breathing through th...
Read more

Private Chronic Sinusitis Treatment in London & Essex | Mr Gaurav Kumar

  Chronic Sinusitis: When "Just a Cold" Becomes a Long-Term Problem Most of us have experienced the misery of a sinus infection—the pressure behind the eyes, the stuffed-up nose, and the dull headache. Usually, these symptoms clear up within a week or two. However, for some, the inflammation never truly goes away. When symptoms persist for 12 weeks or longer , it is clinically defined as chronic sinusitis . This condition can significantly impact your productivity, sleep quality, and general well-being. This guide explains when you should move beyond over-the-counter remedies and see an ENT specialist. What is Chronic Sinusitis? Sinuses are air-filled cavities in the skull located around the nose and eyes. They produce mucus that drains into the nose. Chronic sinusitis occurs when the lining of these cavities becomes swollen and inflamed, blocking the normal drainage pathways. This leads to a buildup of mucus, creating an environment where bacteria or fungi can thrive. Signs ...
Read more

Private Tonsillectomy in London and Essex: When to Consider Tonsil Removal

  Private Tonsillectomy in London and Essex: When Should You See an ENT Consultant? Recurrent tonsillitis can be miserable. For some people, it means repeated courses of antibiotics, time off work, missed school, disturbed sleep and constant worry about when the next infection will happen. Tonsillectomy, which is surgery to remove the tonsils, may be considered when tonsil infections are frequent, severe and affecting day-to-day life. It can also be considered in selected children with sleep-disordered breathing, where enlarged tonsils contribute to snoring, disturbed sleep, or breathing pauses at night. This guide explains when it may be sensible to see an ENT consultant, what a private tonsillectomy assessment involves, and what patients should know about recovery and risks. What are the tonsils? The tonsils are two small pads of immune tissue at the back of the throat. They help the body recognise infections, particularly in childhood. However, in some people, th...
Read more

Glue Ear & Grommet Surgery for Children in London & Essex | Mr Gaurav Kumar

  Glue Ear and Grommet Surgery: A Guide for Parents in London and Essex It can be distressing for parents when a child seems "inattentive," struggles with speech development, or suffers from repeated ear infections. Often, the culprit is Glue Ear (Otitis Media with Effusion)—a condition where the middle ear becomes filled with a thick, glue-like fluid instead of air. While glue ear often clears up on its own, persistent cases can impact a child’s learning and quality of life. This guide explains when to seek a private ENT consultation and how grommet surgery can help. What is Glue Ear? Glue ear occurs when the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, does not function correctly. This prevents air from entering the ear and allows fluid to build up. In children, Eustachian tubes are shorter and more horizontal, making them more prone to blockages following colds, flu, or allergies. Signs Your Child May Have Glue Ear Because children may not alw...
Read more

Earbuds vs Over-Ears: Which One Is Silently Damaging Your Hearing?

Headphones are no longer an occasional accessory—they’re part of daily life. From early-morning podcasts to late-night playlists, our ears are spending more time under acoustic load than ever before. But a question keeps coming up in clinics, classrooms, and conversations around ear health: Are earbuds worse for your hearing than over-ear headphones? Let’s move beyond opinion and aesthetics. By looking at sound pressure levels , hygiene , and long-term listening behaviour , we can reach a clear, evidence-informed conclusion. 1. Sound Pressure Levels: Distance Matters More Than You Think The single most important factor in headphone-related hearing risk is the amount of sound energy that  reaches the inner ear . Earbuds (In-Ear Headphones) Sit millimetres from the eardrum Deliver sound directly into the ear canal Require lower absolute power , but often result in higher sound pressure at the cochlea Users tend to increase volume in noisy environments (commuting, g...
Read more

Private Microsuction Ear Wax Removal London & Essex

  Microsuction Ear Wax Removal in London & Essex: A Safer Way to Clear Blocked Ears Earwax is a natural, protective substance produced by the body to trap dust and prevent infections. However, when it builds up excessively, it can cause discomfort, hearing loss, and even dizziness. If you are experiencing "clogged" ears, seeking professional intervention from an ENT specialist is the safest way to restore your hearing and comfort. Why Does Ear Wax Build Up? While the ears are generally self-cleaning, several factors can lead to an accumulation of wax (cerumen): Narrow or Hairy Ear Canals: This makes it harder for wax to migrate out naturally. Age: Wax tends to become harder and drier as we get older. Hearing Aids or Earplugs: These can push wax deeper into the canal and prevent natural clearance. Cotton Buds: Using swabs often "tamps" the wax against the eardrum, making it harder to remove and increasing the risk...
Read more