Earache Service for Children

Service reviewed by Aans Memon, GPhC-registered pharmacist (GPhC - 2085817)
Earache - 1
Earache - 2
Earache - 3
1

Find a Pharmacy

Search by postcode, pick your preferred location

2

Consultation

Speak with a qualified pharmacist

3

Treatment

Same-day when clinically appropriate

NHS assurance pending: NHS Pharmacy First service delivery is blocked pending assurance evidence. This page must not be used to claim NHS-assured IT status, NHSBSA/MYS submission, live GP Connect Update Record integration, or completed automated GP record updates. NHS Pharmacy First funding and prescription-charge wording is unavailable until assurance evidence is verified.

Urgent or emergency symptoms

If symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening, or you need emergency help, call 999. If you are unsure what to do next, use NHS 111 for urgent medical advice.

Understanding Earache in Children

Mild Earache

Minor Discomfort

Slight pain that may resolve on its own. Monitor symptoms.

Moderate

Ear Infection

Persistent pain with possible fever. Assessment recommended.

Severe

Urgent Care Needed

High fever, severe pain, or discharge. Seek immediate care.

When to Use This Service

The NHS pharmacy earache service is perfect for children aged 1-17 with ear pain. Pharmacists can assess symptoms, provide treatment advice, and prescribe antibiotics if needed. This service helps avoid long GP waits and gets your child feeling better faster.

Signs Your Child May Need Assessment

Look out for these common symptoms of ear infections in children.

01

Ear Pain

Pulling or tugging at ears

02

Fever

Temperature above 38°C

03

Irritability

More fussy than usual

04

Discharge

Fluid from the ear

05

Hearing Loss

Not responding to sounds

06

Sleep Issues

Difficulty sleeping

07

Loss of Appetite

Refusing to eat

08

Balance Problems

Unsteady on feet

Who Can Use This Service?

Eligible

  • Children aged 1-17 years
  • Ear pain or discomfort
  • Suspected ear infection
  • Accompanied by parent or guardian

Not Eligible - See Your GP

  • Adults aged 18 and over
  • Severe ear pain with high fever
  • Discharge of blood from the ear
  • Swelling or redness around the ear
  • Recent head injury
  • Foreign object in the ear

If symptoms are severe, persistent, or your child seems very unwell, you may be referred to a GP or urgent care for further assessment.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

1

Welcome

Friendly greeting and brief health history discussion

2

Examination

Gentle ear check and symptom assessment

3

Treatment Plan

Prescription if needed and advice provided

4

Care Instructions

Clear guidance on medication and recovery

Key Benefits

No GP appointment needed
Quick access to treatment
Pharmacist can prescribe antibiotics
Free NHS consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about weight management treatment

Eligibility & Service

Children aged 1-17 with symptoms of earache can use this service. Parents or guardians can bring their children for assessment and treatment.
The NHS Pharmacy First earache service is specifically designed for children aged 1-17, as ear infections are more common in this age group. Adults with ear pain should see their GP or pharmacist for other treatment options.

2 questions in this category

Get Your Child Relief Today

Find a pharmacy near you for free NHS earache assessment

Find a Pharmacy
Assurance pending
Pilot

Find a Pharmacy

Clinical content is not an NHS-assured service route
No NHSBSA/MYS claim submission by Fylo
No live GP Connect Update Record integration
Use only with an approved pilot instruction or manual support route

NHS Pharmacy First funding and prescription-charge wording is unavailable until assurance evidence is verified.