Pharmacy First
Earache
Pharmacy First is an NHS service which enables you to get expert advice and treatment for earache from our pharmacy, without needing you to see your GP.
Earache can be treated in the pharmacy. If you or your child need advice you can come to our pharmacy and get in touch with our pharmacists who will provide you with expert advice.
What is an Earache?
Pain in one or both ears that can be sharp, dull, or burning.
Very common in children and often improves in a few days.
Common Causes
Ear infections (outer or middle ear)
Glue ear (fluid behind the eardrum)
Earwax or objects in the ear
Throat infections (tonsillitis, quinsy)
Jaw problems (teeth grinding, arthritis)
Dental abscesses
Who Can Use Pharmacy First? (Eligibility)
Service available for children aged 1–17
Pharmacists can give advice, pain relief, and certain ear drops.
Not suitable if your child has:
Recurrent earaches (3+ episodes in the last 12 months)
Severe symptoms such as high fever, vomiting, swelling, or fluid from the ear
Children under 2 with earache in both ears
Pregnant women under 16 are also excluded.
Helping Your Child at Home (Dos & Don’ts)
Do:
Give age-appropriate pain relief
Apply a warm or cold flannel to the ear
Keep your child’s head slightly elevated when resting
Don’t:
Put anything inside the ear (like cotton buds)
Try to remove earwax yourself
Let water get into the ear
Tip: Most earaches improve in a few days. See a pharmacist if symptoms persist.
Signs You Should See a GP
Earache lasting more than 3 days
Recurrent earaches
Fever, vomiting, swelling, or fluid from the ear
Hearing loss or change in hearing
Severe sore throat
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention (A&E)
Signs of meningitis
Severe pain, swelling, or tenderness behind the ear
Severe headache, confusion, or muscle weakness
Facial nerve paralysis
Why use this service?
If you are suffering from a sore throat you are able to come to our pharmacy and get assessed by our pharmacist. Potentially you can receive antibiotics without having to wait.
✅No GP appointment needed
You can walk in to the pharmacy when it suits you best. Our pharmacists are trained to provide you with advice and treatment on the spot.
✅NHS funded service
This service is funded by the NHS. For eligible patients this service is offered for free.
✅Fast access to expert advice
You wil receive trusted, professional care and potentially receive treatment on the same day