Ear ache can appear in both adults and children but is mostly common in young children and babies.
Although it is harder to understand if a young child or baby has ear problems there are several signs to look out for;
- Pulling their ears
- A high temperature (a high temperature is anything over 38 degrees)
- Irritable
- Not feeding
Ear pain can come in both or just one of the ears and usually is not a sign of anything serious.
Self-Care
A pharmacist can help with ear pain in anyone over the age of 5. They are able to advise which may be the best treatment without booking an appointment with your doctor.
They may suggest;
- Pain killers – paracetamol/Calpol
- Warm flannel over the affected ear/s
- Plenty of fluids
If your ear pain is not resolving by following the Pharmacist advise it is always best to be seen by a clinician – a Doctor or advanced nurse practitioner.
If any of the following occur it always best to seek medical help as soon as possible, this may be through your GP Surgery, the walk in centre or 111 if it is out of GP hours.
- Becoming more generally unwell
- Feel hot and shivery
- Change to your hearing – hearing loss
- Something stuck in the ear
- Pain in the bone behind the ear
