How to treat earache | NHS

If you have an earache, you can take over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Rest and keep your head elevated to help reduce pressure in your ear.

Yes, you can use ear drops if recommended by a pharmacist or GP. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully.

You should see a GP if your earache does not improve within a few days, if you have a high temperature, or if you have discharge coming from your ear.

Using warm olive oil drops can be safe for earache relief, but it's important to ensure the oil is not too hot. Avoid using any other home remedies without consulting a GP or pharmacist.

If your child has an earache, give them children's painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. Keep them hydrated and monitor their symptoms. Consult a GP if their symptoms persist or worsen.

Yes, an earache can be a sign of an ear infection. Other symptoms might include a high temperature, hearing loss, and discharge from the ear.

Serious symptoms include severe pain, high fever, hearing loss, dizziness, swelling around the ear, or discharge from the ear. Seek medical help immediately if these symptoms occur.

To prevent earaches, keep your ears dry, avoid inserting objects into your ears, and manage allergies and upper respiratory infections effectively.

Yes, changes in air pressure during flights can cause earaches. Sucking on sweets, yawning, or swallowing can help equalize pressure.

Yes, earache can sometimes cause headaches due to the shared nerve pathways. Over-the-counter pain relief can help with both symptoms.

An earache is considered an emergency if it's accompanied by severe pain, high fever, swelling, or sudden hearing loss. Seek immediate medical attention in these cases.

Yes, excessive earwax can cause earaches. It may also result in hearing loss or a feeling of fullness in the ear.

No, you should avoid using cotton buds as they can push wax further into the ear or injure the ear canal. Use ear drops or consult a GP for safe ear cleaning methods.

Yes, allergies can cause earaches by leading to congestion and inflammation in the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat.

Home care tips include taking recommended pain relief, applying a warm compress to the affected ear, keeping the head elevated, and staying hydrated. Avoid getting water in the ear.

Common symptoms of an earache include pain inside the ear, a feeling of pressure or fullness, temporary hearing loss, and sometimes, fluid drainage from the ear.

You should see a GP if you have a very high temperature, there's fluid coming from your ear, symptoms persist for more than 3 days, you're experiencing severe pain, or if you have any other concerns.

Yes, you can use over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to help relieve pain and reduce any fever.

It is sometimes recommended to use a few drops of warm olive oil or over-the-counter eardrops to soften earwax, but you should consult your GP or pharmacist before doing so.

Antibiotics are not usually needed for earaches as they often get better on their own. They may be prescribed if a bacterial infection is suspected or if symptoms are severe.

Yes, applying a warm cloth or heat pad to the affected ear can help ease pain and discomfort.

If your child has an earache, give them children's painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen, ensure they get plenty of fluids, and keep them comfortable. See a GP if symptoms persist or if you are concerned.

To prevent earaches, keep ears dry, avoid inserting objects into the ears, manage allergies, and maintain good respiratory hygiene to prevent colds and infections.

Yes, earwax buildup can cause earaches. If you suspect this, consult your GP for advice on earwax removal.

Home remedies include using over-the-counter painkillers, applying a warm compress, and staying hydrated. Avoid inserting anything into the ear.

It is best to avoid swimming if you have an earache to prevent further irritation or infection.

Yes, changes in altitude, such as during a flight, can cause ear barotrauma, leading to earaches. Chewing gum, swallowing, or using nasal decongestants can help alleviate symptoms.

Allergies can sometimes cause earaches by leading to congestion and inflammation in the ear.

If there's discharge from your ear, it's important to see a GP as it could indicate an infection or other conditions needing treatment.

Wearing earplugs for extended periods or improperly can irritate the ear canal and potentially cause earaches. Ensure proper hygiene and comfortable fit when using earplugs.