Ear Infections: symptoms, self-care and when to get help
Checked against current published health guidance — last reviewed 2026-09-23. See how we check.
Ear infections are very common, especially in young children, and usually get better on their own within about 3 days. Pain relief and rest usually help. See a GP if symptoms do not improve after 3 days or fluid comes out of the ear, and get urgent help for swelling behind the ear or a stiff neck.
Overview
Symptoms include ear pain, a high temperature, being sick, a lack of energy, difficulty hearing, and fluid coming out of the ear. Young children may pull or rub their ear, be irritable, not respond to quiet sounds, or lose their balance.
Most ear infections are caused by viruses, and antibiotics are often not needed.
What may help
- Give paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain or a high temperature
- Hold a warm or cold flannel against the ear
- Remove any discharge by gently wiping the outer ear with cotton wool
- Do not put anything inside the ear, such as cotton buds or oil, unless advised
When to see a pharmacist or GP
- Symptoms have not improved after 3 days
- Fluid is coming out of the ear
- Swelling around the ear, or changes in hearing
- Ear infections that keep coming back
- Your child is under 2 and has an infection in both ears
When it could be an emergency
- Swelling, redness or pain behind the ear that pushes the ear forward
- A stiff neck, severe headache or sensitivity to light
- Your child is very drowsy, floppy, confused or hard to wake
- A high temperature with a rash that does not fade
If any of these apply, don't wait — call your local emergency number (see emergency numbers by country, or Red Flags in the app), or go straight to your nearest emergency department.
Want more detail, tailored to your own situation?
Look up "Ear Infections" in the appCommon questions
How long does an ear infection last?
Most ear infections get better on their own within about 3 days, although symptoms can last up to a week.
Do ear infections need antibiotics?
Often not, because most are caused by viruses. A GP may prescribe antibiotics in some cases, for example if symptoms are not improving.
Can I fly with an ear infection?
Flying can make ear pain worse because of the pressure changes. Get advice from a pharmacist or GP before flying.
Why do children get more ear infections?
Children's ear tubes are smaller and more easily blocked, and they catch more colds, which can lead to ear infections.
Official sources
Related topics
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General information only, last checked 2026-09-23 — not medical advice and not a diagnosis. This page doesn't cover every cause or every person's situation; for anything specific to you or someone in your care, speak to a pharmacist, GP, or other qualified professional. See how we check. Be Health Wise is part of the Be Wise family of apps.