Acute Otitis Media (Earache)

Overview

Acute otitis media is a middle ear infection, common in young children, that causes ear pain and sometimes a temperature. Most cases settle on their own, but our pharmacists can assess whether treatment would help.

Common symptoms

• Ear pain (in babies: pulling/tugging at the ear, or unusual crying)
• Mild fever
• Reduced hearing or a blocked feeling
• Sometimes fluid or discharge from the ear

What to expect

Your pharmacist will examine the ear where possible, check for red flag symptoms, and decide whether antibiotics or pain relief advice is the right next step.