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Worried about ear infections?

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This page summarises publicly available NHS information for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or a diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.

What is ear infections?

Ear infections are common, especially in children. The most common type (middle ear infection) causes earache, fever, hearing changes, and sometimes discharge. Most clear up within 3 to 5 days without antibiotics. Outer ear infections (swimmer's ear) cause pain, itching, and sometimes discharge from the ear canal and may need ear drops.

When NHS resources suggest seeing a GP

  • Your child is aged 1 to 17 years, and you think they have an ear infection.
  • A pharmacist can give children the same treatments as a GP for an ear infection. They can also give advice or direct you to other medical help.
  • Your child is under 12 months old and you think they have an ear infection.
  • You have earache that does not get better after 3 days.
  • You or your child keep getting ear infections.
  • You or your child have symptoms of an ear infection and.
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Self-care information from NHS

  • Use painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (children under 16 should not take aspirin).
  • Remove any discharge by wiping the ear with cotton wool.
  • Do not put anything inside your ear to remove earwax, such as cotton buds or your finger.
  • Do not let water or shampoo get in your ear.
  • Do not go swimming while you have an ear infection.
  • Do not use decongestants or antihistamines – there's no evidence they help with ear infections.
  • Your child is aged 1 to 17 years, and you think they have an ear infection.
  • A pharmacist can give children the same treatments as a GP for an ear infection. They can also give advice or direct you to other medical help.

Common questions

Do ear infections need antibiotics?

Most ear infections clear on their own within 3 days and don't need antibiotics. Antibiotics may be given if symptoms are severe, last more than 3 days, or if the person is under 2 with infections in both ears. Pain relief is the main treatment.

How can I ease earache at home?

Take paracetamol or ibuprofen at the recommended dose. A warm (not hot) flannel held against the ear can help. Avoid putting anything into the ear — including cotton buds or oils — unless advised by a GP or pharmacist.

When should I see a GP about an ear infection?

See a GP if symptoms last more than 3 days, pain is severe, there's discharge from the ear, hearing is affected, or if a child under 2 has earache in both ears. Recurrent infections also need review.

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This page is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual situation. NorMed organises publicly available NHS information and is not affiliated with the NHS.