Overview
Symptoms
Earache and ear pain is common particularly among young children and is frequently caused by an infection. A child with an ear infection might rub or pull their ear, have a temperature of 38°C or above and loss of appetite or balance. Earache can occur in one or both ears.
Causes
In most cases earache in children and young adults is caused by a viral or bacterial infection that affects the middle ear. It often occurs as a result of another illness such as the flu, cold or allergy that causes congestion and swelling of the nasal passages, throat and eustachian tube in the ear. It normally improves after a few days.
Treatment
Some of the things that can be done to relieve ear pain are:
- Taking painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen
- Placing a warm or cold flannel on the ear
- Using natural decongestants such as Olbas Oil and Vicks or using a decongestant nasal spray or nasal drops (Otrivine) if the pain is associated with a blocked nose
Visit your local pharmacist who will be able to advise you on the best course of treatment and whether or not you need to see a GP.