Causes of loss of hearing:

Glue Ear.

Glue ear can cause a temporary loss of hearing through fluid build up behind the eardrum, in the middle ear. The middle ear is usually filled with ear which carries the vibrations (sound) from the eardrum through the middle ear to three tiny bones which transmit the vibrations to the inner ear, which converts the vibration to sound. When the middle ear is filled with fluid rather than air the vibrations are damped and the hearing volume lowered. 

Glue ear is caused by a build up of fluid due to the Eustachian Tube not opening correctly and allow access fluid to drain away and new air to replace the removed fluid. If the tube does not open regularly the air in the middle drum will be absorbed into the nearby cells and be replaced with fluid. 





Glue ear symptoms

Dulled hearing

This is the main symptom. Hearing does not completely go, and is often mild. Level of hearing loss will depend on each case. 

Pain

This is not usually a main symptom, but mild earache may occur from time to time..


Glue ear treatment

Watchful waiting 

Usually no treatment is advised initially, it may take several months for it to clear. 

Balloon treatment 

A special balloon is blown up by using the nose. This is called 'auto inflation'. It puts back-pressure into the nose, and may help to open up the Eustachian tube and allow better drainage of the fluid. 

Surgery

A small operation may be advised by an ear specialist if glue ear persists, or is severe. A tiny cut (about 2-3mm) in the eardrum under anesthetic. The fluid is drained and a grommet (ventilation tube) is then usually inserted. A grommet is like a tiny pipe that is put across the eardrum. The grommet lets air to get into the middle ear. Hearing improves immediately.

Hearing aids 
Hearing aids is an option. The hearing aids would usually only be used for the time until the glue ear clears away.