Otovent® is the only clinically proven, drug-free and non-surgical treatment for glue ear (Otitis Media with Effusion) and Eustachian tube dysfunction in adults. Around one in three glue ear sufferers is an adult, and the condition often follows a cold or flu, causing dulled hearing, ear pain, dizziness or a constant "blocked" feeling. Otovent's calibrated nasal balloon uses a technique called autoinflation to safely open the Eustachian tube — relieving pressure, restoring hearing, and helping fluid drain naturally. The Adult kit contains a reusable nose piece and 10 balloons for extended treatment.
Why adults choose Otovent
- NICE-recommended non-surgical option, backed by clinical trials and a Cochrane Review.
- Drug-free — safe alongside other medication, no side-effect risk from antibiotics or decongestants.
- Fast relief for blocked ears after colds, flu, sinus congestion or barotrauma.
- Ideal for frequent flyers, divers & high-altitude travellers — equalises middle ear pressure on demand.
- Reusable — 10 balloons per kit, each usable up to 20 times.
- Free companion app to track sessions and set reminders (iOS & Android).
- MDR-compliant medical device with calibrated resistance for consistent, safe pressure.
- Used in over 2 million treatments across 25+ years.
What is glue ear in adults?
Glue ear — clinically known as Otitis Media with Effusion (OME) — is a common condition in which the middle ear fills with fluid instead of air. It usually follows a cold, flu or sinus infection. The Eustachian tube (which normally opens when you swallow or yawn to equalise pressure) becomes blocked, negative pressure builds in the middle ear, and thick "glue-like" fluid collects behind the eardrum. Hearing becomes muffled and communication at work or socially can become difficult.
Symptoms of glue ear & Eustachian tube dysfunction
- Muffled or reduced hearing
- A "blocked" or "full" feeling in one or both ears
- Ear ache or discomfort
- Vertigo, dizziness or balance problems
- Nausea in more severe cases
- Popping, clicking or crackling sounds
- Difficulty equalising pressure when flying, diving or driving over mountain passes
How Otovent works
Otovent uses autoinflation. You inflate a specially calibrated balloon through one nostril, generating positive pressure in the nasopharynx. That pressure gently opens the Eustachian tube, equalising middle ear pressure and allowing trapped fluid to drain naturally down the back of the throat. Both the inflation and deflation phases contribute — a mechanism no other over-the-counter option replicates.
Three simple steps
- Connect — attach a balloon to the nose piece. Hold it firmly against one nostril and press the other nostril closed with your index finger.
- Inflate — take a deep breath, close your mouth, and gently but firmly inflate the balloon to about the size of a grapefruit (10–12 cm). Swallow 1–3 times while the balloon is inflated.
- Repeat — swap to the other nostril and repeat. Success feels like a small "pop" or click in the ear as pressure equalises.
Recommended treatment schedule
- Week 1: 3 times a day (morning, midday, evening) — one inflation per nostril each time.
- Week 2 onwards: 2 times a day (morning and evening).
- Each balloon can be inflated up to 20 times before replacement.
- Full therapeutic effect may take several weeks to a few months of consistent use.
- For flying: use once before boarding, once during descent, and once after landing as needed.
What's in the box
- 1 × reusable Otovent® nose piece
- 10 × calibrated Otovent® balloons (single-user)
- Carry case for storage & travel
- Illustrated instructions for use
Also useful for
- Air travel — prevent and relieve ear pain during ascent, descent and cabin pressure changes.
- Scuba diving — assist with pressure equalisation before descent.
- High-altitude travel — mountain passes, hiking, skiing, or altitude changes that affect the ears.
- Post-cold or post-flu blocked ears — clear residual pressure without medication.
- Barotrauma recovery (once cleared by a healthcare professional).
Clinical evidence at a glance
- NICE Medtech Innovation Briefing (March 2016) — four randomised controlled trials confirmed significant improvement in middle ear function versus standard care.
- Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (Perera et al., 2013) — autoinflation for hearing loss associated with OME.
- Williamson et al., CMAJ 2015 — open randomised controlled trial in primary care, n=320.
- Stangerup et al., Archives of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, 1992 — foundational autoinflation study.
- Blanshard et al., Clinical Otolaryngology 1993 — conservative treatment of OME by autoinflation.
Important safety information
- Do not use during an active cold, ear infection or upper respiratory tract infection.
- Contraindicated in cases of severe nasal septal deformity, repaired cleft lip or palate, or scarred eardrums.
- The balloons contain latex — consult a healthcare professional first if you have a latex allergy.
- Rare, transient side effects can include earache, headache, dizziness or minor nosebleeds.
- If you experience severe pain, sudden hearing loss, or symptoms persist beyond a few weeks, consult a doctor or ENT specialist.
- Only use official Otovent® balloons — toy balloons will not deliver the correct pressure and may cause treatment failure.
- Not a substitute for medical diagnosis. If you are unsure whether you have glue ear, consult a healthcare professional first.
Frequently asked questions
How quickly will I feel results?
Many users notice improvement within days of starting consistent treatment. Full effect typically develops over several weeks. Early intervention produces the best outcomes.
Can I use Otovent on a plane?
Yes. Otovent is well suited to preventing and relieving ear pressure before boarding, during descent, and after landing. It's also useful before scuba diving and at altitude.
Can I use Otovent if I have a cold?
No. Do not use during a cold, ear infection or upper respiratory tract infection. Wait until symptoms have cleared before resuming treatment.
How is Otovent different from Valsalva?
The Valsalva manoeuvre relies on forceful exhalation against a closed nose and mouth, which can be difficult to control and may generate too much pressure. Otovent's balloon is calibrated to deliver a consistent, safe pressure every time, and works via the more effective nasal-balloon autoinflation mechanism.
How do I clean the nose piece?
Rinse with mild detergent and warm tap water when needed. Do not clean the balloons — replace them after 20 inflations. Store the nose piece and balloons in the carry case, away from direct light.
Do I need a prescription?
No prescription is required to purchase Otovent in South Africa. It is a Class I medical device intended for over-the-counter use. If your symptoms are persistent or severe, please consult a doctor or ENT specialist first.
How long does one kit last?
The Adult kit's 10 balloons, at 20 inflations each, provide up to 200 inflations in total — enough for months of treatment based on the recommended schedule. Replacement balloon packs are available separately.
About the manufacturer
Otovent® is manufactured by Circius Pharma (Sweden) and distributed in Southern Africa by Creatori Health. It is a CE-marked medical device compliant with the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR).