Earache

Earache and ear pain is common, particularly in young children. It can be painful but is not usually a sign of anything serious.

How long earache lasts

It depends on what's causing it. Most earaches in children are caused by an ear infection, which usually start to improve after a few days.

Symptoms of earache in babies and young children

A young child might have earache if they:

• rub or pull their ear
• do not react to some sounds
• have a temperature of 38C or above
• are irritable or restless
• are off their food
• keep losing their balance

Earache and ear pain can affect 1 or both ears.

How to treat earache yourself

There are some things you can do to help relieve earache and ear pain.

Do

• use painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (children under 16 should not take aspirin)

Don’t

• do not put anything inside your ear, such as cotton buds

• do not try to remove earwax

• do not let water get inside your ear

Some painkillers are not safe for everyone (for example, if you're pregnant). Always check the leaflet or get medical advice before taking them.

See a pharmacist if:

• your child is aged 1 to 17 years and you think they need help for earache

A pharmacist can give children the same treatments as a GP for earache or an ear infection. They can also give advice or direct you to other medical help.

See a GP if:

• your child is under 12 months old and you think they need help for earache
• you have earache that lasts for more than 3 days
• you or your child keep getting earache

What causes earache and pain

Earache and pain can be caused by many things, but sometimes it's not known by what.