Glue ear is the common name for an ailment known as otitis media with effusion. This is a condition in which a sticky fluid or discharge flows from the middle ear. This condition is commonly seen in children who are prone to ear infections. However, adults may develop this condition too. Usually, glue ear is caused due to infection of the inner or middle ear. Fluid may keep building up in the inner ear, flowing to the middle ear, and from there it flows out as a sticky discharge.

Glue ear

1. Causes of Glue Ear
Glue ear is most often caused due to inner ear infections. Fluid usually builds up when the Eustachian tube remains partially blocked. Even after an inner ear infection is treated, the fluid may remain in the ear. It trickles out slowly and appears as a sticky viscous discharge.

2. Symptoms of Glue Ear
The symptoms of glue ear are not always apparent. If an inner or middle ear infection is causing the sticky discharge, you may experience pain and pressure in the ears. These symptoms are due to the infection and not due to glue ear. In the absence of infection, the fluid discharge is the only symptom of glue ear.

3. Home Remedies for Glue Ear
Though it is not a home remedy, in the absence of any symptoms, it is best to wait and observe the glue ear. If the discharge is heavy at first and then begins to slow down, it could mean that there was some fluid in the middle ear which is slowly flowing out. If you have recently received treatment for an ear infection, it is normal to have sticky discharge for a few days.

Try using an over the counter decongestant. Since glue ear is often caused due to a partially blocked Eustachian tube, a decongestant can help unblock it. If the discharge increases after the use of a decongestant, it means that the Eustachian tube is unblocked and the fluids will be discharged completely in a few days.

Ear candling is an effective home treatment which can help unblock the ear, allowing air to circulate within the ear. Ear candling can also help remove some excess fluids from the ear.

Goldenseal is a naturally occurring herb which can help give relief from pain and release of mucus within the ear. If you experience excessive discharge in your ear, goldenseal may help you get temporary relief. The herb can be consumed in supplemental form or in its natural form.