Glue Ear Flashcards
What are the other names for “Glue Ear”
Otitis Media with Effusion
Serous Otitis Media
Acute otitis media has NO accumulation of fluid. TRUE/FALSE?
TRUE
Can AOM and OME occur simultaenously and if so, will fluid be present?
Yes they can occur simultaneously and fluid is present
Glue ear is more common in boys than girls. TRUE/FALSE?
TRUE
What age are children who normally get glue ear?
Can be any age but incidence decreases as they get older
What factors can predispose to glue ear?
- Day care
- Having older siblings
- Smoking household
- Recurrent URTI
What are the main symptoms of Glue Ear?
- Deafness => Speech delay
- Poor school performance
- Behavioural problems
What signs are present on the tympanic membrane which would indicate Glue Ear?
Retraction of membrane
Reduced mobility
Altered colour
Visible fluid/bubbles
What type of hearing loss would be noted in glue ear if a tuning fork test was carried out?
conductive
Why is “watchful waiting” often the chosen treatment by clinicians in glue ear?
Most cases will resolve on their own, and it does not compromise childs further hearing or education
How can a child with glue ear be helped if struggling with education during a period of “watchful waiting”?
Put them at the front of the class to hear the teacher better
When should children with glue ear be referred to a specialist?
Persistent (> 3/12) bilateral OME Conductive Hearing Loss of >25dB Speech/language problems Behavioral problems
What surgical options are available for glue ear?
<3yrs = Grommets >3yrs = Grommets then if req'd = adenoidectomy
What are the complications of Grommets?
Infection/discharge
Early extrusion
Persistent perforation
Swimming/bathing issues
