Ear Infection
Ear infections are very common, particularly in children. You do not always need to see a GP for an ear infection as they often get better on their own within 3 days.
What are the symptoms of an ear infection?
In most cases, the symptoms of a middle ear infection (otitis media) develop quickly and resolve in a few days. This is known as acute otitis media.
The main symptoms include:
- earache
- a high temperature (fever)
- being sick
- a lack of energy
- slight hearing loss – if the middle ear becomes filled with fluid
In some cases, a hole may develop in the eardrum (perforated eardrum) and pus may run out of the ear. The earache, which is caused by the build-up of fluid stretching the eardrum, then resolves.
How to treat an ear infection?
To help relieve any pain and discomfort from an ear infection:
Do:
- use painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (children under 16 should not take aspirin)
- place a warm or cold flannel on the ear
- remove any discharge by wiping the ear with cotton wool
Don’t:
- do not put anything inside your ear to remove earwax, such as cotton buds or your finger
- do not let water or shampoo get in your ear
- do not use decongestants or antihistamines – there’s no evidence they help with ear infections
Treatments for Ear Infection
You can ask a pharmacist about treatments for an Ear infection. Our pharmacists can offer advice on things that can help you get better, suggest the best painkiller to take or assess whether you need to see a GP or call NHS 111 about your symptoms.