Do ear infections always need antibiotics?

No. Many improve in three days with pain relief and self care. Medicine is supplied only when appropriate after assessment.

What can I do at home for earache?

Use paracetamol or ibuprofen if suitable, keep the ear dry and avoid cotton buds. Do not use decongestants or antihistamines for ear infections.

When should I seek urgent help?

Go urgently if there is swelling around the ear, discharge, very high temperature, new hearing loss, severe sore throat, dizziness or vomiting.

Can you see my child without a GP referral?

Yes. You can attend the pharmacy directly for this service for the seven common conditions, including earache.

How long do symptoms usually last?

Most ear infections settle within three days, but symptoms can last up to a week. Use pain relief and keep the ear dry.

Babies under twelve months with earache in both ears need prompt medical advice in line with safety guidance. Speak to us and we will direct you.

🛒

Your basket is empty

Browse our range of treatments, skincare and wellness products from a trusted pharmacy.

Explore the Shop

Pharmacy First

Earache in Ealing

Walk in for earache assessment and advice. Pharmacists can treat eligible children and guide adults with clear care steps today.

Prescription if needed
Local and convenient
Follow up support

PriceFreeon the NHS

Book your appointment

What earache means and when

Earache is common in children and adults. Many cases settle within three days. Some can take up to a week. A trained pharmacist can assess symptoms, examine the ear and guide the next steps for you or your child.

Under Pharmacy First, pharmacists can manage earache in children aged one to seventeen. Treatment may include advice, pain relief and, when appropriate, medicine that would usually need a prescription. You can attend the pharmacy directly for this.

Simple steps help. Use paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain if suitable for you. Keep the ear dry. Do not put cotton buds or fingers in the ear. Avoid swimming until better. Decongestants and antihistamines are not helpful for ear infections.

Know the red flags. Seek urgent help if there is swelling around the ear, fluid coming out, a very high temperature, new hearing loss, severe sore throat, dizziness or vomiting. Babies under twelve months with earache in both ears need prompt advice.

What to look for

Who we can help today

We see children aged 1 to 17 for earache under Pharmacy First. Adults can receive assessment, pain advice and safety netting. If medicine is needed and you or your child are eligible, we can supply it without a GP visit.

Helpful steps while you recover:

Use suitable pain relief as directed on the pack
Wipe away discharge with cotton wool
Keep water out of the ear during washing
Avoid swimming until settled
Do not use cotton buds inside the ear
Avoid decongestants and antihistamines for ear infections
Return if symptoms worsen or do not improve as advised

👋 Meet the team

Your local pharmacy team

South Ealing Pharmacy is a community pharmacy and trusted healthcare partner. For over a decade we have delivered personal, professional care from the same shop on South Ealing Road: prescription dispensing including electronic repeats, travel vaccinations, general immunisations, private health checks, and a collection and delivery service.

Whether you need everyday advice or a specific treatment, you can walk in and talk to a pharmacist, or book a clinic appointment online in about a minute.

More about us Call 020 8560 3532

Patient reviews