The most common type of conductive deafness in children - when sound cannot pass efficiently through the outer and middle ear to the cochlea and auditory nerve - is caused by glue ear (otitis media). The middle ear becomes clogged with mucus that fails to clear within three months, and this affects about one in five children at any time, according to the National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS).Numerous conditions can influence glue ear, such as colds and flu, allergies and passive smoking. According to the NDCS, children with cleft lip and plate, or with genetic conditions such as Down's Syndrome, are more likely to get glue ear as they may have smaller eustachian tubes. But it can also develop unnoticed.
The resulting hearing loss from glue ear is usually moderate, but it can affect growth of language skills. "The peak time for getting glue ear is between the ages of two and five," says Dr Dighe.
A simple ear examination can diagnose glue ear and often a course of antibiotics is sufficient. If it fails to clear, then the fluid may be drained and grommets (tiny plastic tubes) can be inserted into the eardrum to allow air to circulate in the middle ear. Hearing aids are also sometimes used.
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