Most earaches settle on their own within two to three days, but persistent or worsening ear pain, especially in children, shouldn’t be ignored. In this article, we’ll cover when an earache needs treatment, how the NHS Pharmacy First scheme can help children with ear infections, what’s available for adults, and where to get earache treatment in Healing and earache treatment in Laceby.
When Does an Earache Need Treatment?
Most earaches get better within two to three days without treatment. However, NHS guidance recommends getting medical advice sooner if you are concerned about other symptoms, such as a high temperature or fluid coming from the ear.
While you are waiting to see if the pain settles, paracetamol or ibuprofen can help relieve discomfort when suitable. Children under 16 should not take aspirin.
Common Ear Infection Symptoms to Watch For
Ear infections often cause a combination of pain and other symptoms alongside the earache itself. These include:
- Dull, sharp or throbbing pain in one or both ears
- Muffled hearing
- A high temperature or cold-like symptoms
- Fluid or discharge from the ear
- Irritability, poor feeding or crying in young children
- Loss of balance in young children
When Should an Earache Be Checked Urgently?
Some symptoms need more prompt medical attention. Seek urgent advice if you or your child has:
- Swelling around or behind the ear
- Fluid or pus coming from the ear
- New hearing loss
- Severe dizziness or vomiting
- A very high temperature or your child seems unusually unwell
- Severe pain that is getting worse
How Pharmacy First Can Help With Earache
Pharmacy First allows trained pharmacists to assess and treat acute otitis media, a middle ear infection, in children aged 1 to 17. This can be done without needing a GP appointment. Ear infections are one of seven common conditions covered by the NHS Pharmacy First scheme.
What Happens During a Pharmacy First Earache Consultation?
The pharmacist will ask about your child’s symptoms and examine the ear with an otoscope to look for signs of infection. Depending on what they find, they may recommend pain relief or ear drops. Antibiotics may be prescribed when clinically appropriate, as not all middle ear infections need antibiotic treatment.
What About Ear Pain Treatment for Adults?
The Pharmacy First earache pathway is available only for children aged 1 to 17, so adults with persistent ear pain are not covered by this particular NHS service.
Adults still have another option. Periville Pharmacy offers a private ear pain assessment, allowing you to speak with a pharmacist about your symptoms and possible treatment without waiting for a GP appointment.
Get Your Earache Checked at Periville Pharmacy
If earache is affecting you or your child, Periville Pharmacy offers earache treatment to patients across Grimsby, Laceby, Keelby, Great Coates and Healing. Children may be assessed through the NHS Pharmacy First service, while adults can use the private earache service. Book your earache appointment today and get advice on the next steps for your earache.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an earache normally last?
Most earaches improve within two to three days, even without treatment, though the exact length depends on the underlying cause.
When should I see someone about an earache?
Seek advice sooner than two to three days if you notice a high temperature, fluid leaking from the ear, or if the pain is severe or getting worse rather than better.
Does Pharmacy First treat earache in adults?
No. The Pharmacy First earache pathway covers children aged 1 to 17 only. Adults with persistent ear pain can access a private consultation instead.
What happens during a Pharmacy First earache appointment?
A pharmacist will ask about your child’s symptoms and examine their ear, then recommend pain relief, ear drops, or antibiotics if clinically appropriate.
What are the signs of an ear infection?
Common signs include ear pain, muffled hearing, a high temperature, and fluid or discharge from the ear. In young children, irritability, poor feeding or loss of balance can also be signs.
Where can I get earache treatment in Healing or Laceby?
Periville Pharmacy offers earache treatment for patients in Healing, Laceby and the surrounding Grimsby area, through Pharmacy First for children and a private service for adults, at either of its two branches.