Ear Infections (Otitis) — Online Consultation & Treatment
Get professional medical care for ear infections. Speak to qualified UK clinicians online with same-day appointments and prescriptions.
- Professional online consultation and treatment advice
- Same-day prescriptions when appropriate
- Secure video consultations from home
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What are Ear Infections (Otitis)?
Ear infections are inflammations of the ear caused by bacteria or viruses. They can affect the outer ear (otitis externa), middle ear (otitis media), or inner ear. Common symptoms include pain, blockage, discharge, and hearing difficulties.
Common Symptoms
- Ear pain or aching
- Feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear
- Discharge from the ear
- Reduced hearing or muffled sounds
- Fever (especially in children)
- Irritability in young children
- Balance problems
- Headache
Common Causes
- Bacterial infections
- Viral infections (often following cold or flu)
- Allergies causing inflammation
- Water trapped in the ear
- Wax buildup
- Foreign objects in the ear
- Eczema or other skin conditions
- Swimming in contaminated water
How Our Online Consultation Can Help
- Assess symptoms and determine infection type
- Prescribe appropriate antibiotics if bacterial
- Recommend pain relief and ear drops
- Provide advice on ear care and prevention
- Determine if specialist referral is needed
- Monitor progress through follow-up consultations
Home Care
- Apply warm compress to affected ear
- Take over-the-counter pain relief (paracetamol/ibuprofen)
- Keep ear dry and clean
- Avoid inserting objects into the ear
- Use saline solution for gentle cleaning
- Rest and stay hydrated
Medical Treatments
- Prescription antibiotic ear drops
- Oral antibiotics for severe infections
- Prescription pain relief
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Specialist ear cleaning if needed
- Referral to ENT specialist for persistent cases
Commonly Prescribed Medications
Otomize (Dexamethasone/Neomycin/Acetic acid)
Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory ear drops for external ear infections
Sofradex (Dexamethasone/Framycetin/Gramicidin)
Combined antibiotic and steroid ear drops
Amoxicillin
Oral antibiotic for bacterial middle ear infections
Ibuprofen
Anti-inflammatory pain relief for ear pain
When to Seek Urgent Care
- Severe ear pain that doesn't improve with pain relief
- High fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F)
- Discharge containing blood or pus
- Sudden hearing loss
- Severe dizziness or balance problems
- Facial weakness or drooping
- Swelling around the ear
- Symptoms in babies under 6 months
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention by calling 999 or visiting your nearest A&E.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do ear infections typically last?
Most ear infections resolve within 3-5 days with appropriate treatment. Middle ear infections may take 7-10 days to fully clear.
Can I swim with an ear infection?
It's best to avoid swimming until the infection has cleared completely. Water can worsen the infection and delay healing.
Are ear infections contagious?
Ear infections themselves aren't contagious, but the underlying cold or respiratory infection that may have caused them can be.
When do I need antibiotics for an ear infection?
Our clinicians will assess whether your infection is bacterial (requiring antibiotics) or viral (managed with supportive care).
Can ear infections cause permanent hearing loss?
Most ear infections don't cause permanent damage when treated properly. However, repeated infections may require specialist assessment.
How can I prevent ear infections?
Keep ears dry, avoid inserting objects, manage allergies, and practice good hygiene. Vaccinations can also help prevent some causes.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: January 2025