Earache
Ear infections, particularly in children, are common and often improve within 3 days without the need to see a GP.
Identifying an Ear Infection
Symptoms of an ear infection include:
- Pain inside the ear
- High temperature
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Difficulty hearing
- Ear discharge
- Feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear
- Itching and irritation in and around the ear
- Scaly skin in and around the ear
- Young children and babies may also display additional symptoms such as ear rubbing, unresponsiveness to sounds, irritability, loss of appetite, and balance issues.
Most ear infections resolve within 3 days, though symptoms may persist for up to a week.
Self-Treatment for Ear Infections
To alleviate pain and discomfort
Do:
- Use painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen (not aspirin for children under 16)
- Apply a warm or cold flannel to the ear
- Gently clean ear discharge with cotton wool
Don’t:
- Insert anything into the ear, including cotton buds or fingers, to remove earwax
- Allow water or shampoo to enter the ear
- Use decongestants or antihistamines as they're ineffective for ear infections
If you suspect an ear infection, make an appointment to see us at Consult Pharmacy. We can recommend eardrops to prevent bacterial or fungal spread and provide additional treatments if necessary, eliminating the need for a GP visit.
Please note: Ear Ache, under the Pharmacy First / NHS funded service is only available for 1 to 17 year olds only, therefore we are only able to assist for this age range.
Source: NHS England – February 2024