Earache Treatment

Quick and effective treatment for earaches available now.

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Understanding Earache

An earache can be a painful and disruptive condition affecting people of all ages. It can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from infections to environmental influences. Earaches are particularly common in children but can also affect adults. Understanding the causes, treatment options, and when to seek professional help can alleviate discomfort and prevent complications.

For patients aged 1 to 17 years, pharmacists can treat earache, particularly those caused by infections. The service includes pain management, advice on ear care, and antibiotics for bacterial infections. This helps to reduce discomfort and prevent complications​ (NHS England)​​ (NHS England)​.

3-Step to book your Earache appointment

BOOK

1

Book an appointment online or in-store. Register using your NHS login credentials to get started.

CONFIRMATION

1

Receive email confirmations and reminders for your appointments. 

CONSULTATION

1

Consult with our trained pharmacist and receive appropriate medication and care advice.

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Earache FAQs

Expert answers to your earache questions.

Common causes of earaches include:

  • Ear Infections: The most common cause, particularly in children. These infections can be in the outer ear (otitis externa) or middle ear (otitis media).

     

  • Earwax Buildup: Excess earwax can block the ear canal and cause pain.

     

  • Injury: Physical damage to the ear canal from inserting objects like cotton swabs.

     

  • Throat Infections: Infections such as tonsillitis or pharyngitis can cause referred pain to the ear.

     

  • Sinus Infections: Sinusitis can lead to ear pain due to the proximity of the sinuses to the ears.

     

  • Changes in Air Pressure: Rapid changes, such as during airplane travel, can cause ear discomfort.

Yes, a pharmacist can offer treatment and advice for certain types of ear infections, particularly mild cases. They can recommend over-the-counter medications and ear drops to relieve pain and treat minor infections. Pharmacists can also provide advice on managing symptoms and suggest when it is necessary to see a GP for more serious infections that might require antibiotics.

You should see a pharmacist if you:

  • Experience Mild to Moderate Pain: For initial advice and treatment options.

     

  • Have Symptoms Lasting More Than a Couple of Days: If the pain persists without severe symptoms.

     

  • Need Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Pharmacists can recommend appropriate medications.

     

  • Require Advice on Ear Care: Including the safe removal of earwax and preventing infections.

Treatments for earaches available from a pharmacist include:

  • Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation.

     

  • Ear Drops: Antiseptic or anaesthetic ear drops can help relieve pain and treat minor infections.

     

  • Earwax Removal Products: Drops or sprays designed to soften and remove earwax.

     

  • Warm Compress: Applying a warm cloth to the affected ear can help alleviate pain.

     

  • Decongestants and Antihistamines: If the earache is related to allergies or sinus congestion.

     

In more severe cases, such as when there is significant pain, hearing loss, discharge, or if symptoms do not improve with initial treatment, the pharmacist may advise seeing a GP. This could be necessary for stronger prescription medications or further examination.