About Earache

Earache and ear pain are common, particularly in young children, and while painful, they're not usually a sign of anything serious. How long earache lasts depends on the cause — most earaches in children are due to an ear infection, which typically starts improving within a few days.

Signs in Babies and Young Children

A young child may have earache if they rub or pull at their ear, don't react to certain sounds, have a temperature of 38C or above, seem irritable or restless, go off their food, or keep losing their balance. Earache can affect one or both ears.

Treating Earache Yourself

Most earaches improve on their own, but get medical help if symptoms haven't improved within 2 to 3 days, or sooner if you're worried about other symptoms such as a high temperature or fluid leaking from the ear. Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help (children under 16 shouldn't take aspirin), and a warm flannel held against the ear can also ease discomfort. Avoid putting anything inside the ear, such as cotton buds, don't try to remove earwax yourself, and try to keep water out of the ear. Some painkillers aren't suitable for everyone, such as during pregnancy, so always check the leaflet or ask for advice before taking them.

Getting Advice from a Pharmacist

A pharmacist can advise on self-care for earache, whether anything such as eardrops might help, and whether you need to see a GP. They can also treat a middle ear infection in children aged 1 to 17 directly, without needing a GP visit first.