Ear infections

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.

The symptoms of an ear infection usually start quickly and include:

• pain inside the ear
• a high temperature of 38C or above
• being sick
• a lack of energy
• difficulty hearing
• discharge running out of the ear
• a feeling of pressure or fullness inside the ear
• itching and irritation in and around the ear
• scaly skin in and around the ear

Young children and babies with an ear infection may also:

• rub or pull their ear
• not react to some sounds
• be irritable or restless
• be off their food
• keep losing their balance

Most ear infections clear up within 3 days, although sometimes symptoms can last up to a week.

To help relieve any pain and discomfort from an ear infection:

A pharmacist can help with an ear infection

Speak to a pharmacist if you think you have an outer ear infection.

They can recommend acidic ear drops to help stop bacteria or fungus spreading.

What happens at your appointment

Your GP will often use a small light (an otoscope) to look in the ear.

Some otoscopes blow a small puff of air into the ear. This checks for blockages, which could be a sign of an infection.

Your GP may prescribe medicine for your ear infection, depending on what's caused it.

Infections inside the ear

Antibiotics are not usually offered because infections inside the ear often clear up on their own and antibiotics make little difference to symptoms, including pain.

Antibiotics might be prescribed if:

• an ear infection does not start to get better after 3 days
• you or your child has any fluid coming out of their ear
• you or your child has an illness that means there's a risk of complications, such as cystic fibrosis

They may also be prescribed if your child is less than 2 years old and has an infection in both ears.

Outer ear infections

Your GP might prescribe:

• antibiotic ear drops – to treat a bacterial infection
• steroid ear drops – to bring down swelling
• antifungal ear drops – to treat a fungal infection
• antibiotic tablets – if your bacterial infection is severe

If you have a spot or boil in your ear, your GP may pierce it with a needle to drain the pus.

Ear drops may not work if they're not used correctly.

You cannot always prevent ear infections, particularly inner ear infections caused by colds and flu.

To help avoid inner ear infections:

• make sure your child is up to date with vaccinations
• keep your child away from smoky environments
• try not to give your child a dummy after they're 6 months old

To help avoid outer ear infections:

• do not stick cotton wool buds or your fingers in your ears
• use ear plugs or a swimming hat over your ears when you swim
• try to avoid water or shampoo getting into your ears when you have a shower or bath
• treat conditions that affect your ears, such as eczema or an allergy to hearing aids