Are there any other treatments for glue ear that could be considered?

A procedure called ‘autoinflation’ involves a child blowing up a small balloon using a plastic tube that is inserted into their nose. Blowing up the balloon makes it easier for fluid to drain away from the middle ear, and it may improve glue ear over a short term period of 3 months. The procedure has to be done at least twice a day for between 2-3 weeks and is sometimes referred to as balloon treatment. This is a special balloon that should not be used unless advised by a healthcare professional that it is safe and appropriate to do so.

Antibiotics do not have a positive effect on glue ear in children. Other treatments such as oral steroids, nasal steroids, antihistamines and decongestants are not effective for glue ear.