Same-day NHS assessment and treatment for Ear Infections
Ear Infections
How It Works
Three simple steps to get your treatment
1
Tell Us What You Need
2
Book Your Convenient Appointment
3
Collect or Receive Your Medication
What Is an Ear Infection?
Ear infections are common in babies, children, and teenagers, particularly following colds or upper respiratory infections. They can affect the middle ear (otitis media) or the outer ear and often cause ear pain, fever, irritability, difficulty hearing, or fluid discharge from the ear.
Most ear infections in children improve on their own without antibiotics. Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, trained pharmacy clinicians can assess ear infection symptoms in children and young people under 18 – without the need for a GP appointment.
Where appropriate, we can provide NHS treatment, advice on managing pain and fever, and clear guidance on what to watch for as your child recovers.
Available Treatments
Safe, effective medications reviewed by our pharmacists
Common Questions
We can assess symptoms such as ear pain, tugging at the ear, fever, irritability, reduced hearing, and ear discomfort following a cold.
Yes. The consultation is free. If prescription medication is needed, it will be supplied free of charge for children under 18.
No. You can access this service directly through the pharmacy without a GP referral or appointment.
No. Many ear infections are viral and improve without antibiotics. Treatment is based on symptom severity, age, and clinical assessment.
This Pharmacy First service is available for children and young people under the age of 18. Eligibility will be confirmed during booking.
If we identify signs of a more serious infection – such as severe pain, swelling behind the ear, persistent high fever, or concerns about hearing – we’ll refer you urgently to GP or hospital care.
Yes. Consultations take place in a private consultation room or via a confidential virtual appointment.