Earache (Acute Otitis Media)

Middle-ear infections (acute otitis media) are very common in children and a frequent reason families seek help. Through NHS Pharmacy First, our pharmacist in Timperley can examine the ear and advise you, without a GP appointment.

What it is

Acute otitis media is an infection of the middle ear, often following a cold. It usually causes ear pain and can affect hearing for a short time. Most cases improve within a few days, and many get better without antibiotics.

Symptoms

In older children and teenagers the main symptom is ear pain. Younger children may be irritable, pull at the ear, feed poorly, have disturbed sleep, reduced hearing or a temperature. Sometimes fluid drains from the ear, which often relieves the pain.

What the pharmacist can do

This service is provided face to face because the pharmacist needs to look inside the ear with an otoscope. After examining the ear and asking about symptoms and history, the pharmacist gives advice on pain relief and recovery and, where it is clinically appropriate under the NHS pathway, can provide treatment directly. If the picture suggests something more serious, they will refer you.

Comfort and recovery

Regular pain relief is the most important thing for comfort while the ear settles. The pharmacist will advise on suitable options and what to expect over the next few days.

When to seek urgent help

Seek urgent help if there is severe or worsening pain, swelling or redness behind the ear, a stiff neck, drowsiness, or the child is very unwell.

Symptoms

Ear pain, irritability in young children, reduced hearing, and sometimes fluid from the ear or a temperature.

What the pharmacist can do

The pharmacist examines the ear with an otoscope, gives advice, and where appropriate provides NHS treatment. This pathway is delivered face to face because the ear must be examined.

When to see a GP or seek urgent help

Seek urgent help for severe pain, swelling behind the ear, a stiff neck, or a very unwell child.