Earache
Assessed by our pharmacy team under NHS Pharmacy First - no GP appointment needed for eligible patients.
Earache is common in children and adults alike. It can come from an infection inside the ear, an infection of the ear canal, a build-up of wax, or pressure from a cold or sinus problem.
Most earache settles within a few days. Assessment helps to work out which type you are dealing with, because the treatment differs.
What to look for
- Pain inside the ear, or a feeling of pressure
- Reduced hearing, or a blocked feeling
- Discharge from the ear
- Itching or irritation in the ear canal
- A high temperature, particularly in children
How we can help
Under NHS Pharmacy First, our pharmacist can examine the ear, identify whether it is a middle ear infection, an outer ear infection or wax-related, and supply treatment where clinically appropriate.
If the problem is wax rather than infection, we offer a dedicated ear wax assessment and microsuction service - safe, precise removal of the blockage.
Treatment
Simple pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen settles most earache. Outer ear infections may need antibiotic drops; middle ear infections often clear without antibiotics but can be treated where clinically appropriate. Never put cotton buds or drops into an ear you suspect is perforated.
Get urgent help if you have
- Swelling, redness or pain around the ear itself
- Discharge that is bloody or smells unpleasant
- Sudden hearing loss, or dizziness with vomiting
- A child under one year old with ear pain
- A high temperature with a stiff neck or severe headache
Common questions
Related reading
Think you have earache?
Book an NHS Pharmacy First assessment, or walk in and speak to our team.