Glue ear usually results from persistent ear infections,colds or chest complaints. It commonly brings a discharge of thick yellow mucus from the ear. The middle ear is ‘glued up’ and restricts hearing. It may be triggered by cold weather or swimming.

Prevention

Research shows that fewer ear infections occur in children who are breast fed.

Treatment - Dietary

The build up of mucus in the ear may result from food allergies. Certain foods are thought to affect mucus production. The following should be avoided: cow’s milk products (replace with goat’s milk or soya milk), roast peanuts, excessive sugar. Foods which reduce mucus include garlic, onions, watercress, parsley and celery. Try to encourage a wholefood diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, grains and lean meat or fish.

Herbal

To reduce mucus, golden seal is an effective remedy: take 2-4 ml of the tincture in water 3 times daily. This is a long-term treatment which could take 3-4 months to produce results.

Homeopathy

Professional help is recommended, although the remedies listed for earache may be helpful in the short term.

Bach Flower Remedies

Passion Flower and Rescue Remedy can help a child who is frightened or panicked by the pain: give 2 drops of each under the tongue.

Biochemic Tissue Salts

Take 4 times daily for 1 week and repeat if necessary:

If there is thick mucus: Kali Mur. Intense pain: Ferr Phos.

Hydrotherapy

A warm hot water bottle, protected by a towel or cover, can be held against the ear to provide relief.

Acupressure

For acute pain: gently massage down the outside of the child’s arm, from the elbow to the wrist, massaging between the two bones which make up the arm. Repeat 20 times on both arms.

Professional Help

Cranial osteopaths use techniques to improve drainage in the ears. Acupuncture may also help.

Orthodox

If the pressure of mucus builds up, surgery may be recommended to pierce the eardrum and allow the pus to drain out. A grommet is generally inserted to leave the hole open to drain future fluid and allow the lining of the middle ear cavity to dry out. The operation may weaken the ear drum, and you should not swim or bathe without wearing moulded ear plugs.