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Glue ear

Overview

Open all pages about Glue ear

The main symptom of glue ear is temporary loss of hearing in 1 or both ears.

A GP should be able to tell if you have glue ear by looking for fluid inside the ear. This should not be painful.

Glue ear often gets better on its own. Sometimes treatment is needed to drain the fluid, such as putting small tubes called grommets into the ears.

Glue ear is where the middle part of the ear canal fills up with fluid. It's more common in children but adults can sometimes get it.

Page last reviewed: 05/06/2023
Next review due: 05/06/2026