An ear infection is a common condition that can affect both children and adults. It often develops following a cold or other upper respiratory tract infection and may cause ear pain, reduced hearing and fever. Many uncomplicated ear infections can be assessed during an online consultation.

🩺 Speak to an English-speaking doctor today

Symptoms

Common symptoms of an ear infection include:

• Ear pain or discomfort

• Reduced hearing

• A feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear

• Fever

• Fluid or discharge from the ear

• Difficulty sleeping due to ear pain

• Irritability in young children

• Temporary hearing loss

Children may also tug at their ears, cry more than usual or have difficulty feeding.

Causes

Ear infections often occur when the middle ear becomes inflamed following a viral infection, allowing fluid to build up behind the eardrum.

Factors that may increase the risk include:

• The common cold

• Influenza

• Sinusitis

• Allergies

• Smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke

• Enlarged adenoids

Although many ear infections are viral, some are caused by bacteria and may require antibiotics.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis is often based on your symptoms and medical history.

During your consultation, your doctor will assess whether your symptoms suggest a middle ear infection, an outer ear infection or another condition. If necessary, you may be advised to attend an in-person examination to allow the eardrum to be assessed.

Treatment

Many ear infections improve without antibiotics.

Treatment may include:

• Rest

• Drinking plenty of fluids

• Paracetamol or ibuprofen (if suitable for you)

• Warm compresses to relieve discomfort

If a bacterial infection is suspected, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics following an assessment.

When should I seek urgent medical care?

You should seek urgent medical attention if you have:

• Severe pain that suddenly stops followed by discharge from the ear

• Swelling or redness behind the ear

• Persistent high fever

• Severe headache

• Facial weakness

• Confusion or extreme drowsiness

These symptoms may indicate a more serious infection requiring urgent assessment.

Related Symptoms

• Ear pain

• Fever

• Hearing loss

• Ear discharge

• Dizziness

• Headache

Related Conditions

• Swimmer's ear (Otitis externa)

• Sinusitis

• Common cold

• Influenza

• Earwax build-up

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get antibiotics online?

Yes. If your symptoms suggest a bacterial ear infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics following an assessment.

How long does an ear infection last?

Most ear infections improve within three to seven days, although some symptoms may last a little longer.

Do all ear infections need antibiotics?

No. Many ear infections are caused by viruses and improve without antibiotic treatment.

Can an ear infection be assessed online?

Yes. Many uncomplicated ear infections can be assessed during an online consultation, although some patients may need an in-person examination.

Can adults get ear infections?

Yes. Although ear infections are more common in children, adults can also develop them.

Need medical advice?

If you think you may have an ear infection, an online consultation can help determine the cause of your symptoms and whether treatment is appropriate.

Book an appointment with an English-speaking doctor today.