A pharmacist can be a useful first point of contact for ear infection symptoms. They can assess your ear pain, advise on pain relief and eardrops, and tell you whether you need a GP. Most infections clear within three days, but some need a doctor. Here are which signs matter and who to see.
What Are the Main Ear Infection Symptoms?
Ear infection symptoms can come on quickly. The NHS lists:
- Ear pain (earache) and a high temperature
- Difficulty hearing
- Discharge running out of the ear
- Pressure or fullness inside the ear
- Dizziness, irritation or scaly skin in and around the ear
Signs of Ear Infection in Babies and Young Children
Young children cannot always explain that their ear hurts, so changes in their behaviour can be useful signs. They may rub or pull their ears, seem irritable or restless, go off their food, not respond to some sounds or lose their balance.
Which Type of Ear Infection Could It Be?
The type of infection can affect the treatment needed. The NHS describes three main types:
- Middle ear (otitis media): usually affects children and often develops after a cold or flu.
- Outer ear (otitis externa): affects children and adults and can be linked to eczema, water, earplugs or infection.
- Inner ear: can affect both children and adults and may be caused by a viral or bacterial infection.
What Else Can Cause Ear Pain or Blocked Ears?
Not every blocked or painful ear is caused by an infection. Earwax build-up can also cause earache, reduced hearing, itching, tinnitus or a blocked feeling. This is why having your symptoms assessed can be useful, particularly when you are not sure what is causing the problem.
When Should You See a Pharmacist for Ear Pain?
A pharmacist can be a helpful first point of contact for mild ear pain or a suspected infection. They can assess your symptoms and advise you on what to do next.
- Convenient advice without needing to see a GP first.
- Proper assessment, which may include an otoscope.
- Advice on pain relief and ear drops.
- Clear direction if you need a GP.
When Should You See a GP or Call NHS 111 Instead?
See a GP if your earache has not improved after 3 days, if you keep getting ear infections, or if your baby is under 12 months old.
When Is an Ear Infection Urgent?
Ask for an urgent GP appointment or call NHS 111 if you also have:
- Swelling around the ear or fluid coming from it.
- New hearing loss or a change in hearing.
- Sickness, dizziness or a severe sore throat.
- A very high temperature.
- Diabetes, a long-term heart, lung, kidney or neurological condition, or a weakened immune system.
What Does Ear Infection Treatment Involve?
Most infections clear within 3 days, so treatment often focuses on easing pain. NICE guideline NG91 advises that most children with acute otitis media need no antibiotic or only a backup prescription.
What Can You Do at Home?
Use paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain (children under 16 should not take aspirin). Gently wipe away discharge with cotton wool. Do not put cotton buds or your finger inside your ear. Keep water and shampoo out of the ear, and avoid swimming while you have an infection. Decongestants and antihistamines are not recommended.
How Do You Use Eardrops Correctly?
Eardrops need to be used correctly to work properly. Follow these steps:
- Remove any discharge or earwax with cotton wool.
- Lie on your side with the affected ear facing up.
- Gently pull and push your ear to work the drops in.
- Stay lying down for 5 minutes.
Speak to a Pharmacist About Your Ear Symptoms
If you are unsure about your ear pain, our pharmacists at Oakwood Pharmacy in Woodhouse Eaves can assess your symptoms and advise on the next steps. During your ear infection consultations, we will also recommend suitable options for managing your symptoms, including pain relief and eardrops.
Book your appointment or contact us to find out more. We are here to help you feel more comfortable.
