Earache Treatment
Earache can be extremely uncomfortable and affect your daily life. Our pharmacists are trained to assess ear pain, identify likely causes, and provide effective treatment or appropriate referral - often saving you a wait for a GP appointment.
Price
FREE on NHS
Appointment
Walk-in Welcome
Common Earache Symptoms
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, our pharmacists can help.
Pain in one or both ears
Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
Reduced hearing or muffled sounds
Discharge from the ear
Itching inside the ear
Fever (in some cases)
Who Can Use This Service?
Our Pharmacy First earache service is available to most patients. Check if you're eligible:
Adults and children aged 1 year and over
Symptoms lasting less than 3 days (for antibiotics consideration)
No grommets or recent ear surgery
No discharge containing blood
What to Expect
Here's what happens when you visit us for earache treatment:
Assessment of your symptoms and ear examination where possible
Questions about your medical history
Pain relief recommendations
Antibiotic ear drops or oral antibiotics if appropriate
Referral to GP or urgent care if needed
Available Treatments
Our pharmacists can provide or recommend the following treatments for earache:
Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain relief
Antibiotic ear drops for outer ear infections
Oral antibiotics for middle ear infections (if appropriate)
Warm compress advice
Guidance on keeping ears dry
When to Seek Urgent Help
Visit A&E or call 111 if you experience any of these symptoms:
Severe pain not relieved by painkillers
High fever (over 39°C)
Swelling or redness around the ear
Hearing loss that persists
Discharge containing blood
Symptoms in a baby under 1 year old
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about earache treatment through Pharmacy First.
Other Pharmacy First Conditions
We also treat these conditions without a GP appointment.
Get Treatment for Earache Today
No appointment needed. Walk into our Harrow pharmacy for fast, free NHS treatment.