Earache – Free NHS Pharmacy First Service

Earache in children can be painful and distressing, and it often comes on quickly. Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, Medwin Pharmacy can assess earache in children and young people and, where appropriate, provide treatment without you needing a GP appointment.

How does the service work?

You do not need an appointment or a referral. Speak to our pharmacy team and they will arrange a private consultation, usually the same day.

The pharmacist will ask about your symptoms, how long you have had them and your medical history, and will carry out any checks the NHS pathway requires. The consultation takes place in our private consultation room.

If the pharmacist decides treatment is appropriate, they can supply it directly under a national NHS protocol, without you needing to see a GP first. Depending on the condition this may include prescription-only medicine. If treatment is not suitable, or your symptoms suggest something that needs further assessment, the pharmacist will refer you to your GP practice or another NHS service.

There is no charge for the consultation. If you are supplied with a medicine, normal NHS prescription charges apply unless you are exempt.

Who is eligible?

The NHS Pharmacy First earache pathway is for children and young people aged 1 to 17 years. The pharmacist will confirm at your consultation whether the service is right for you, as some people are not suitable for treatment under this pathway and are better seen by a GP.

Speak to Us About Earache

Medwin Pharmacy, 22 Gillygate, York, YO31 7EQ
Call us on 01904 642557 or email info@medwinpharmacy.co.uk

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What is Earache?

Earache in children is most often caused by acute otitis media, an infection of the middle ear. It frequently follows a cold, when fluid builds up behind the eardrum and becomes infected. Many cases settle on their own within a few days, but some benefit from treatment.

Symptoms to look out for

  • Ear pain, which may be worse when lying down
  • A high temperature
  • Reduced hearing in the affected ear
  • Irritability, poor feeding or disturbed sleep in younger children
  • Fluid draining from the ear
  • Tugging or rubbing at the ear in a small child

Very young children cannot always say that their ear hurts, so tugging at the ear alongside a temperature or unsettled behaviour can be the first sign.

If your symptoms get worse, do not improve, or you feel very unwell at any point, contact your GP practice or call NHS 111. In an emergency, call 999.

Other Services

Feeling unwell? Speak to our pharmacist

NHS Pharmacy First consultations are free and no appointment is needed.

Contact the Pharmacy