Otovent Glue Ear Treatment - 1 Applicator + 5 Balloons

What Is Otovent Glue Ear Treatment and How Can It Help?

Glue ear — medically known as otitis media with effusion (OME) — is one of the most common childhood ear conditions in the UK, though it can affect adults too. It occurs when thick, sticky fluid builds up in the middle ear, causing muffled hearing, a sensation of fullness, and sometimes mild discomfort. The NHS estimates that around 8 in 10 children will have glue ear at some point before the age of 10. Glue ear treatment has traditionally involved watchful waiting or surgical intervention, but Otovent offers a clinically supported, non-invasive alternative you can use at home. If you're looking for other ear, nose, and throat products, browse our Ear Nose Throat collection at Cured Pharmacy.

The Otovent Glue Ear Treatment kit contains one reusable nasal applicator and five replacement balloons. It is a CE-marked medical device — not a medicine — designed to be used by children aged 3 and over, as well as adults. Each pack provides enough balloons for a full course of treatment, making it a practical and cost-effective option for families managing this condition.

How Does Otovent Work to Relieve Glue Ear?

Otovent works through a technique called nasal autoinflation. By blowing a small balloon through one nostril, you generate controlled pressure in the nasopharynx — the area at the back of the nose and throat. This pressure is transmitted to the Eustachian tube, the narrow channel connecting the middle ear to the throat, encouraging it to open. When the Eustachian tube opens, the trapped fluid behind the eardrum can drain away naturally, restoring normal middle ear pressure and improving hearing.

• Increased nasopharyngeal pressure is created by blowing through the nose into the balloon
• This pressure travels along the Eustachian tube, encouraging it to open
• Fluid in the middle ear is able to drain via the now-open Eustachian tube
• Middle ear pressure normalises, reducing the sensation of fullness and improving sound conduction

A randomised controlled trial published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that autoinflation with a device like Otovent significantly improved tympanometric outcomes (a measure of middle ear pressure) compared to no treatment. It's a simple technique, but the science behind it is well established.

Who Should Use Otovent Glue Ear Treatment?

Otovent is suitable for anyone experiencing the symptoms of otitis media with effusion who is physically able to perform the blowing technique. It is particularly well suited to children aged 3 and above, as glue ear is most prevalent in this age group. Adults with Eustachian tube dysfunction — whether caused by colds, allergies, or pressure changes during flying — may also benefit.

• Children aged 3 and over with diagnosed or suspected glue ear
• Adults with Eustachian tube dysfunction or persistent ear fullness
• Individuals experiencing hearing difficulties related to middle ear fluid
• Those seeking a non-surgical, drug-free option before considering grommets

How Does Otovent Compare to Other Glue Ear Treatments?

Is Otovent Clinically Proven and How Should It Be Stored?

Yes. Otovent has been evaluated in clinical research and is recommended in some NHS guidelines as a first-line approach for managing glue ear before surgical referral is considered. As a CE-marked medical device, it meets European safety and performance standards. It is not a medicine, so it does not interact with other medications — but if your child has a perforated eardrum, an active ear infection, or has recently had ear surgery, do not use this device without first speaking to your GP or ENT specialist.

Store Otovent below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the applicator clean by wiping it with a damp cloth after each use. Balloons should be replaced when they become difficult to inflate or show signs of wear. If you're managing related symptoms such as nasal congestion from allergies or hay fever, treating the underlying cause may also help improve Eustachian tube function.

This product is a medical device. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

What Is Otovent Glue Ear Treatment and What Is It Used For?

Otovent is a CE-marked, non-pharmacological medical device used to treat otitis media with effusion — commonly called glue ear. It is designed to help drain fluid from the middle ear by using a technique called nasal autoinflation. The device consists of a nasal applicator nozzle and a small balloon. When you blow through your nose into the balloon, the resulting pressure helps open the Eustachian tube, allowing trapped fluid to drain naturally.

Glue ear is the most common cause of hearing loss in children in the UK, according to the NHS. It can affect one or both ears and often follows a cold or upper respiratory tract infection. In many cases it resolves on its own within three months, but persistent glue ear can affect speech development and school performance in children. Otovent provides a safe, drug-free way to actively support recovery at home, and is often recommended before surgical options such as grommet insertion are considered.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Otovent Glue Ear Treatment?

Before using Otovent, it is important to check that it is appropriate for you or your child. Do not use this device if any of the following apply:

• You have an active ear infection (acute otitis media)
• You have a perforated eardrum
• You have recently undergone ear surgery
• The child is under 3 years of age
• You have a severe nasal blockage that prevents nasal breathing
• You have been advised by a clinician not to perform the Valsalva manoeuvre

There are no known drug interactions, as Otovent contains no active pharmaceutical ingredients. However, if your child is using nasal corticosteroids or decongestants for associated nasal congestion, these should be used as directed by your pharmacist or GP. If you're also managing cold or flu symptoms that are contributing to Eustachian tube blockage, you may find our Cold and Flu collection helpful alongside this treatment.

How Should You Use Otovent Glue Ear Treatment?

Using Otovent correctly is key to getting the best results. The technique takes a little practice, especially for younger children, but most children can master it within a few attempts. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Attach a balloon firmly onto the tip of the nasal applicator nozzle
2. Blow your nose gently to clear any mucus before starting
3. Close one nostril by pressing it shut with a finger
4. Place the nozzle into the open nostril, ensuring a snug fit
5. Close your mouth and blow steadily through your nose — not your mouth — until the balloon inflates to approximately the size of a grapefruit
6. Remove the nozzle and allow the balloon to deflate
7. Repeat the process through the other nostril
8. Use three times daily — morning, midday, and evening

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Otovent Glue Ear Treatment?

Because Otovent is a medical device rather than a medicine, it does not carry the same side effect profile as pharmaceutical treatments. Most people tolerate it very well. That said, some users do report minor sensations during or after use.

Common side effects:

• Mild pressure sensation in the ears during inflation
• Temporary feeling of fullness immediately after use
• Slight popping or clicking sound in the ear as the Eustachian tube opens

Less common side effects:

• Temporary dizziness or light-headedness
• Mild discomfort in the ear canal
• Nosebleed in individuals with fragile nasal mucosa (rare)

If you or your child experience significant pain, worsening hearing, or any discharge from the ear, stop using Otovent immediately and consult your GP. These symptoms may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical assessment. For children managing related discomfort, our Baby and Toddler collection includes a range of products to support your child's health.

How Should You Store Otovent Glue Ear Treatment?

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
• Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat
• Keep out of reach of young children when not in use
• Clean the applicator nozzle with a damp cloth after each use — do not submerge in water
• Replace balloons when they become difficult to inflate, discoloured, or show signs of wear
• Do not use balloons that appear cracked or damaged
• Dispose of used balloons responsibly — do not leave within reach of small children as they present a choking hazard