Ear Infections: Assessed and Treated Without a GP Appointment

Who we can treat

Under Pharmacy First, our pharmacist can assess and treat middle-ear infection in children and young people aged 1 to 17, free on the NHS and without a GP appointment.

Adults and babies under one fall outside the service, but we can still look, advise and point you in the right direction.

What causes it

Ear infections often follow a cold. Fluid builds up behind the eardrum, bacteria or viruses multiply in it, and the pressure causes pain. Children get them more than adults because the tube that drains the middle ear is shorter and flatter at that age.

Most settle within a few days without antibiotics, which is why assessment matters rather than automatic treatment.

What to expect

The pharmacist examines both ears with an otoscope and asks about pain, temperature, discharge and hearing. You will leave with either a clear self-care plan, a delayed prescription to use only if things do not improve, or antibiotics if the examination supports it.

Get it looked at the same evening

We are open until 9pm Monday to Saturday and 8pm on Sunday, which covers most of the hours when ear pain flares and surgeries are shut.