Home Remedy for Glue Ear

Glue ear is a medical condition that is also known as otitis media with effusion. It can also be called "fluid in the ear" or "cloudy ear drum." Glue ear is a condition in which fluids build up behind the ear drum in the middle ear chamber. It is usually caused by an infection of the inner ear. Both children and adults can suffer from this condition, although it is most common in children.

Wait and See

• Because glue ear is not a life-threatening condition and because half of all cases usually clear up on their own, many doctors will ask patients to wait three months before seeking treatment. While antibiotics were often prescribed to those with the condition in the past, they are no longer the standard treatment. Instead, a wait-and-see approach is the recommended approach most practitioners take.
  To treat glue ear at home, wait a few weeks (and no more than three months) to see if the condition clears up on its own. If the condition persists, the patient should seek treatment from a physician.

Decongestants

• In order to help open the eustachian tubes, purchase decongestants appropriate for the patient's age and condition. Decongestants can help the tubes to open, which can allow the ear to drain properly, thus curing the condition. Ordinary over-the-counter decongestants are useful for opening the eustachian tubes. Follow the instructions and dosing on the package to treat the patient correctly and safely.

Antihistamines

• If the patient also suffers from seasonal allergies, an antihistamine can help rid the ears of the swelling that causes the fluid to accumulate in the ear. Over-the-counter antihistamines work well; be sure to read package directions for proper dosing.

Alternative Treatments for Glue Ear

• In addition to time and medications, there are some alternative treatments that can be very effective in treating a glue ear condition.

  Ear candling can help open the tubes to allow air to circulate in the middle ear by removing some fluids from the ear. Purchase an ear candling kit from a health food store. To candle ears, place the small end of the special "candle" onto the edge of the patient's ear and light with a match. The candle will then work to pull fluids and excess wax from the ear.

  A supplement that some sufferers find helpful in treating glue ear is Goldenseal. This herb stops the excessive release of mucus inside the inner ear. Place one-quarter to one and a half teaspoons of Goldenseal drops in water into the ear daily. Goldenseal capsules or formulas can also be used; check package instructions for proper dosing and age requirements. Positive results from this long-term dosage regimen can take three or four months to develop.