DS (10mths) had the start of glue ear and antibiotics, poor wee thing was so blocked up it was hard to sleep and he grizzled when laying down. I waited a few weeks then his ear started leaking (like a snotty ear) poor wee thing had a burst eardrum. I think it was a natural reaction and he was much better after it burst, as it relieves the pressure (like a grommet would). But horrible to think what he went through to get to the point of bursting After that it cleared right up - and he has been fine.
I'm not sure there is much you can do to avoid it - however if it happens to us again I will be going to my local naturopath and getting some tonics to loosen snot and soothe the ears.
Hope she recovers soon xx