Earache is a common complaint, especially in children. It is generally caused by an ear infection, but can also be caused by:

• allergies or irritation
• changes in air pressure, such as when you take off or land in a plane
• an object in the ear
• an injury
• loud noises.

If the pain persists or gets worse, or if you feel sick or have a temperature, see your doctor.

Earache treatments

Some earaches go away on their own and do not need treatment. Simple painkillers like paracetamol can help.

You should see your doctor if:

• the pain is persisting or is getting worse
• you are feeling unwell with fevers
• you have a discharge from your ears
• it is a child under two who has the ear infection
• you are worried and unsure what to do.

Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

Ways to ease the pain include:

• holding a warm cloth or heat pack to your ear
• covering your ears if cold weather or wind makes symptoms worse.

If you have a discharge, you can gently clean the outer ear with cotton wool. If there is discharge from both ears, use a new piece of cotton wool for each ear.