Hearing and Grommets

Hearing loss and ear infections

There are many causes for hearing loss in children.  This can present with poor attention, speech delay and behavioural issues.  It is important to have children with suspected hearing loss assessed with a hearing test and if confirmed, an ENT surgeon.

The most common cause of hearing loss in children is “glue ear”.  This is where fluid accumulates behind the ear drum.  This fluid may resolve spontaneously, however if it persists then the usual recommendation is for grommet insertion.

Ear infections are common in young children.  Usually they are in the form of middle ear infections otherwise known as acute otitis media.  These often present with an irritable child, ear pain, tugging at the ears, fever and even discharge from the ear if the infection ruptures the ear drum.  Often the GP will note that the ear drum looks red.  These episodes are treated with antibiotics, however if a child has recurrent episodes the grommet insertion can be considered.