Ear infections are a common, and often painful, problem, especially in children. As a parent or caregiver, it’s helpful to know how to spot the early signs, reduce the risk, and understand the best course of action if one does occur.
This guide covers what an ear infection is, how to prevent them, treatment options (both medical and at home), and when to seek medical help.
What Is an Ear Infection?
An ear infection occurs when the middle, outer, or inner part of the ear becomes inflamed, often due to bacteria or viruses. The most common type, otitis media, affects the middle ear and is particularly common in children following a cold.
Types of Ear Infections
Not all ear infections are the same:
- Outer ear infections (otitis externa) often involve itching, redness, or discharge, and are commonly caused by trapped water or irritation.
- Middle ear infections (otitis media) are the most common in children and often follow a cold.
- Inner ear infections (labyrinthitis) are less common but may cause dizziness or balance problems.
If it’s just a blockage, pressure can build up and feel like an infection. Please only take prescription medication after an official diagnosis.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms usually start suddenly and can include:
- Earache or sharp pain inside the ear
- Fever (especially in children)
- Discharge (pus or fluid) from the ear
- A feeling of pressure or fullness
- Temporary hearing loss
- Hearing difficulty or muffled sounds
- Irritability or trouble sleeping (in babies and toddlers)
- Tugging or pulling at the ear
- Loss of balance or dizziness
Most infections clear up within 3 days, but symptoms can last up to a week.
How to Treat an Ear Infection at Home
For mild cases, home remedies and over-the-counter treatments can ease symptoms:
Do:
- Use paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain and fever (avoid aspirin in children)
- Gently wipe away discharge with clean cotton wool
- Rest and keep hydrated
Don’t:
- Insert cotton buds or fingers into the ear
- Allow water or shampoo to get inside the ears
- Use decongestants or antihistamines – not shown to help with ear infections
- Go swimming until the infection is gone
A warm compress held to the ear can also relieve discomfort.
Natural Remedies (With Caution)
Ear infections can be incredibly uncomfortable, making even the simplest of daily tasks more difficult. I’m loathed to mention this but feel they need to be covered. These home remedies may offer temporary relief but are not substitutes for professional medical care and you should always refer to the NHS guidance on ear infections.
- Garlic oil drops, Known for its antibacterial properties, though not medically endorsed by the NHS.
- Apple cider vinegar and water mix (used cautiously) – May help rebalance pH but not recommended for active infections with discharge.
When to See a Pharmacist or GP
You can consult a pharmacist for children aged 1–17 with mild symptoms. They can offer advice or recommend over-the-counter treatments.
See a GP if:
- Symptoms don’t improve after 3 days
- You have frequent ear infections
- Pain is severe or worsening
Call NHS 111 or seek urgent help if:
- Earache in both ears in a child under 2
- Dizziness, vomiting, or feeling unwell
- There’s discharge from the ear (especially pus or blood)
- Swelling around the ear
- High fever (above 38°C) or chills
- There’s severe pain or hearing loss
- A weakened immune system or long-term condition
What Happens at the GP and Medical Treatments
If symptoms persist or worsen, a GP will examine the ear using an otoscope (a small scope with a light). They may prescribe:
- Antibiotic tablets or drops
- Steroid or antifungal drops (for outer ear issues)
- Painkilling ear drops
Eardrops may not work unless used correctly — always follow instructions carefully.
In rare cases, if a boil or cyst is found, your GP may need to drain it.
Long-Term Prevention Tips for Ear Infections
Ear infections can be not only painful but also a recurring issue. Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to prevent ear infections, or at least reduce the risk:
- Stay hydrated which helps maintain healthy mucous membranes.
- Practise good hygiene and encourage regular handwashing to prevent the spread of cold viruses.
- Avoid swimming in contaminated water in lakes and ponds can harbour bacteria.
- Keep ears dry while bathing or swimming (use earplugs, swim hat or cotton wool with petroleum jelly)
- Do not insert cotton buds or fingers into ears
- Treat underlying skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis
- Avoid second-hand smoke and pollen which can inflame the ear and nasal passages.
- Avoid dummies after 6 months, which may increase risk in toddlers.
- Ensure allergies are managed, particularly if nasal inflammation is a trigger.
- Consider adenoid removal if advised by an ENT specialist in persistent cases.
- Ensure children are up-to-date with vaccinations and annual flu vaccines to reduce virus-related infections
- Avoid dummies after 6 months to reduce ear pressure
- Avoid using hearing aids or earbuds during active infections
| Symptom | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Mild pain & no fever | Treat at home with paracetamol or ibuprofen |
| Discharge or fever | See a pharmacist or book a GP appointment |
| Persistent/worsening | Seek GP advice after 3 days |
| Redness, swelling, fluid or hearing loss | Call NHS 111 or visit a GP urgently |
Ear infections are painful but manageable, especially when treated early and effectively. Knowing how to spot symptoms, ease discomfort at home, and understand when to escalate care can prevent complications and promote quicker recovery.
With a combination of common-sense self-care, pharmacist guidance, and medical support when needed, you can confidently handle ear infections and protect your family’s health.
