How Do You Know If You Have an Ear Infection?
What Are the Signs of an Ear Infection?
Ear pain is one of the most obvious signs of an ear infection. It may feel sharp or throbbing and can be worse when lying down. Other ear infection signs in adults and children can include:
- Earache or a sharp, throbbing pain
- A feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear
- Reduced or muffled hearing
- Discharge from the ear, which can signal a perforated eardrum
- Mild fever, particularly in children
- Dizziness or balance problems in some cases
Ear Infection vs Earwax Build-Up: Spotting the Difference
One of the easiest ways to tell the difference between an ear infection vs earwax build-up is the level of pain. Earwax build-up can cause muffled hearing and a blocked sensation but usually doesn't cause significant pain. An infection is more likely to cause noticeable discomfort and may come on fairly quickly.
Feature | Ear infection | Earwax build-up |
Pain | Common, often sharp | Rare, mild pressure at most |
Onset | Sudden, over a day or two | Gradual, over weeks |
Fever | Sometimes present | Absent |
Discharge | Possible | Not typical |
Hearing | Muffled, may fluctuate | Muffled, steady |
What Causes Ear Infections?
Many ear infections develop after a cold or respiratory infection. Swelling in the nose and throat can block the tube that normally drains the middle ear, allowing fluid to build up. Bacteria or viruses can then multiply in this trapped fluid.
Common contributing factors include:
- Colds, flu or sinus infections
- Allergies causing nasal congestion
- Swimming or water trapped in the ear canal
- Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
How Are Ear Infections Treated?
Most ear infections improve within a few days with rest and pain relief, although some cases need prescription treatment. According to the NHS, a pharmacist is often the right first point of contact.
Pharmacy First for Earache
Under the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, a pharmacist can assess earache in adults and children over one year old and supply antibiotics where clinically appropriate. This means a pharmacist can treat an ear infection without a GP appointment in many cases, making pharmacy earache treatment one of the quickest routes to relief.
When Antibiotics Are Needed
Antibiotics are generally reserved for infections that are severe, not improving, or occurring in very young children, in line with NICE guidance (NG91) on acute otitis media. Milder cases usually settle with paracetamol or ibuprofen alone.
When to Seek Urgent Help
Most ear infections are not dangerous, but certain symptoms need same-day attention. Contact your GP or NHS 111 if you notice:
- Severe pain that will not settle with painkillers
- Swelling or redness behind the ear
- A high fever that persists
- Discharge that continues for more than a few days
- Any hearing loss that does not improve after the infection clears
Get Fast, Expert Ear Pain Treatment
You don't always need to wait for a GP appointment when you're dealing with earache. Community pharmacies such as Maple Leaf Pharmacy can assess ear pain through the NHS Pharmacy First service and provide treatment or advice where appropriate. Anyone with earache or unusual ear symptoms can visit or book directly, with no referral required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a pharmacist treat an ear infection?
Yes, under the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, pharmacists can assess and treat earache in eligible adults and children, including supplying antibiotics when needed. This avoids the wait for a GP appointment in many straightforward cases.
How long does an ear infection usually last?
Most ear infections clear within three to five days, with or without antibiotics. Pain typically eases within the first 24 to 48 hours once treatment begins.
Is ear pain always a sign of infection?
No, ear pain can also result from earwax build-up, jaw problems, or referred pain from a sore throat. A proper examination helps confirm the cause.
Can adults get ear infections as often as children?
Adults get them less often, since the eustachian tube widens with age and drains more easily. However, colds, allergies and swimming can still trigger infections at any age.
Should I use ear drops without seeing someone first?
It is best to have the ear examined first, as some ear drops are unsuitable if the eardrum has perforated. A pharmacist can advise on the safest option.
Can an untreated ear infection cause hearing loss?
Temporary muffled hearing is common during infection and usually resolves afterwards. Repeated or severe untreated infections can occasionally affect hearing longer term, so persistent symptoms should always be checked.
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