Glue ear is the most common cause of hearing problems in young children. About 4 out of every 5 children will have at least one episode of mild glue ear in early childhood. It occurs when there is a build up of thick, sticky mucus/fluid in the middle ear space which prevents the eardrum from vibrating as it should. This can result in hearing loss. Glue ear is most common in winter or after a cold/flu. It is often linked with ear infections. Sometimes it clears up on it’s own without treatment, but it may need specialist intervention.
Signs of hearing loss in children:
Your child says “what” or “huh” more often than normal
The volume of the TV is louder than normal
They don’t follow instructions. It seems as though they are not paying attention.
Speech is delayed or unclear. They mispronounce words.
Your child starts speaking louder than normal
The teacher reports concern that they may not be hearing well in the classroom
Hearing tests for children:
Tympanometry (glue ear test) - this is a pain free test which involves holding a small probe against your child’s ear and measuring the middle ear pressure.
Play Audiometry - a hearing test which involves putting a toy brick in a bucket or a peg on a board every time they hear a beep sound through headphones.
Same day results are available and ENT referral if required.
To book an appointment, send an email to info@elstreehearing.co.uk or use the contact us form.