| Symptoms |
Typical Duration |
- Outer ear swelling or itching;
- Fluid or yellow/green discharge;
- Inner ear earache;
- High temperature;
- Slight deafness;
- Children may feel tired or sick.
|
Commonly following a cold, the acute stage can last 2-3 days, with less acute symptoms for 4-10 days. |
| Self-Help Advice |
- Rest;
- Outer ear infections may be treated with lotions or creams;
|
| Over-the-Counter Medication |
|
If in doubt, discuss over-the-counter medication with your pharmacist.
- Ear drops containing anti-bacterial, anti-fungal or moisturising ingredients;
- Corticosteroid cream to reduce redness and swelling;
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen can be taken to ease the pain.
|
| When to Contact the Surgery |
- If you have a discharge from the ear for more than 10 days;
- If you experience pain or have a high temperature for more than 4 days;
- If you have had more than 2 infections in the past year;
- If you suffer any additional symptoms such as breathlessness, drowsiness or lethargy, or have a persistent high temperature.
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