Ear Infection Treatment

Ear infections can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection that causes uncomfortable symptoms such as pain inside the ear, fever, and difficulty hearing. At Ways Pharmacy, our online ear infection clinic offers medications to relieve the symptoms of ear infections.

Treating Ear Infections

The primary goal in treating ear infections is to alleviate pain and address the infection if it’s caused by bacteria. Bacterial ear infections often require prescription treatments, while over-the-counter options may effectively relieve pain associated with viral infections.

Severe ear infections may require antibiotics to eliminate the infection fully.

Prescription Treatments

• Ciprofloxacin (Cetraxal®) 2mg/ml solution, see SPC
• Ciprofloxacin 3mg/ml + fluocinolone 0.25mg/ml solution (Cetraxal Plus®), see SPC
• Dexamethasone, glacial acetic acid, neomycin sulfate (Otomize®) Ear spray, see SPC

Antibacterial prescription sprays or drops, such as Otomize Ear Spray, deliver antibiotics directly into the ear canal to target the infection effectively.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

For relief from inflammation and symptoms of ear infections, over-the-counter ear drops or sprays like EarCalm Spray can be helpful.

You can also take pain relievers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, to ease discomfort. If these are not effective, Solpadeine Max can be used for up to three days to manage pain associated with ear infections.

Causes of Ear Infections

Ear infections commonly follow a sore throat, cold, or respiratory infection. When bacteria or viruses cause the initial infection, they can travel to the middle ear through the Eustachian tubes (connecting your ear to your throat) and lead to an ear infection.

Symptoms of Ear Infections

Typical symptoms of ear infections include:

• Ear pain
• Fever
• Sensation of fullness or blockage in the ear
• Difficulty hearing
• Fluid discharge from the ear

Can I Buy Ear Infection Treatment Online?

To purchase Ear Infection Treatment online, complete a short medical questionnaire. Our UK-registered healthcare professionals will review your information, and if deemed suitable, your medication will be dispatched promptly.

Note: The decision regarding treatment suitability is made by the pharmacist in consultation with the patient. However, the ultimate decision-making authority rests with the healthcare professional.

Ear Infection: Essential Information

Ear infections are common but can be both painful and concerning. Fortunately, many local pharmacies now provide ear infection services, offering advice, diagnosis, and rapid, effective treatments.

Types of Ear Infections

Our ears are remarkable and active around the clock, even while we sleep. However, they are also susceptible to infections. Ear infections are especially prevalent in children, with up to 85% experiencing at least one by age five. There are two main types:

• Inner Ear Infection: Often viral, linked to colds or flu, and more common in children.
• Outer Ear Infection: Known as "swimmer's ear," this type frequently affects adults over 45, often due to irritants like eczema, ear plugs, or water.

Recognizing Ear Infection Symptoms

Symptoms of ear infections can appear quickly and vary widely, including:

• Ear pain
• Fever (38°C or above)
• Nausea or low energy
• Hearing loss
• Ear discharge
• Feeling of pressure or fullness
• Skin irritation around the ear

In babies or young children, additional signs may include ear rubbing, loss of balance, reduced appetite, or irritability.

At-Home Treatments and When to Seek Help

Most ear infections clear up within three days. Meanwhile, these methods can ease discomfort:

• Pain relievers (paracetamol or ibuprofen) for pain and fever relief
• Warm or cold compresses applied to the ear
• Gentle cleaning of ear discharge with cotton wool

If symptoms persist, your local pharmacist can help. Pharmacists now offer a full range of ear infection treatments, including:

• Antibiotics
• Antibiotic ear drops
• Steroid or antifungal ear drops

Preventing Ear Infections

While not entirely preventable, you can take steps to reduce the likelihood of ear infections:

• For Inner Ear Infections (often affecting children):

  • Keep vaccinations up to date
  • Avoid exposing children to smoke
  • Discontinue dummies after six months

• For Outer Ear Infections (common in adults):

  • Avoid inserting objects into the ears
  • Use ear protection when swimming
  • Keep ears dry from water or shampoo
  • Treat skin conditions like eczema that could affect the ear

Convenient Pharmacy Services

Pharmacies now provide comprehensive ear infection services, making it easier to access the care you need. Many pharmacists can offer guidance, support, and prescribe necessary treatments for ear infections, ensuring timely help for you and your family.