Earache treatment for children in Huntingdon.
Ear infections are common in children and often painful. Under NHS Pharmacy First our pharmacists can examine your child's ears and treat uncomplicated middle ear infections without a GP appointment.
What happens in the consultation
- A private consultation and an examination of the ear with an otoscope
- Assessment against NHS Pharmacy First criteria for acute otitis media
- Pain relief advice, ear drops or NHS antibiotics where clinically appropriate
- Referral to your GP or urgent care if the picture isn't straightforward
- Children aged 1 to 17
- Uncomplicated acute otitis media (middle ear infection)
Free NHS consultation. Standard NHS prescription charges apply if medicine is issued and you're not exempt.
What to look out for
- Ear pain, or a younger child pulling and rubbing at the ear
- A high temperature and being generally unwell
- Reduced hearing or a feeling of fullness
- Discharge from the ear
What helps at home
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen at the correct dose for their age and weight
- A warm (not hot) flannel held against the ear
- Keep the ear dry — no cotton buds or objects in the ear
- Encourage fluids and rest
When to get more urgent help
Pharmacy First isn't right for every situation. Contact your GP, call NHS 111, or seek emergency care if any of the following apply:
- A child under 1 year old with earache
- Swelling or redness of the bone behind the ear
- Severe headache, neck stiffness or drowsiness
- Symptoms that worsen quickly or don't settle within 3 days
Common questions
Is there an age limit?
Yes — the NHS earache pathway covers children aged 1 to 17. Adults and babies under 1 should contact their GP or NHS 111.
Will my child get antibiotics?
Many ear infections improve within a few days without antibiotics. We'll supply them on the NHS if the assessment shows they're needed.
Do you look inside the ear?
Yes — we examine both ears with an otoscope as part of the consultation.
How long does it take?
Around 10 to 15 minutes in our private consultation room.
Other conditions we can treat
Sore throat
Assessment for acute sore throat, with antibiotics supplied where clinically appropriate.
Learn more about sore throatUrinary tract infection (UTI)
Uncomplicated UTI in women aged 16 to 64.
Learn more about urinary tract infection (uti)Sinusitis
Acute sinusitis in adults and children aged 12 and over.
Learn more about sinusitisSee a pharmacist today.
Book your free NHS Pharmacy First consultation at the Oak Tree Centre, Huntingdon — or call and we'll find a time that suits you.