checklists.oneAndroid appSign in
‹ Health

Ear pain at home: care and when to see a doctor

Ease the pain safely, avoid things that make it worse, and know the signs that need a doctor.

19 items · 5 sections · health, medical, family

Start this checklist

Ease it at home (4)

  • Take a painkiller such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, following the label (children: use the dose for their age or ask a pharmacist)
  • Hold a warm flannel against the ear
  • Rest and sleep with your head raised on a pillow
  • Keep the ear dry: use a shower cap or cotton wool with petroleum jelly when washing hair

Things not to do (3)

  • Do not put cotton buds, fingers or any object in the ear
  • Do not use ear drops or home remedies if the eardrum may be damaged
  • Do not swim until it has cleared up

Check what else is going on (4)

  • Do you have a cold, sore throat or blocked nose?
  • Have you been on a flight, diving or swimming recently?
  • Is there a toothache or jaw pain? Ear pain can come from the teeth or jaw
  • Is there wax build-up or a feeling of fullness?

See a doctor if (5)

  • The pain lasts more than 3 days or keeps coming back
  • There is a high temperature or you feel very unwell
  • There is fluid, pus or blood coming from the ear
  • You have hearing loss, dizziness or ringing in the ear
  • A baby or small child is pulling at the ear, crying and has a fever

Get urgent help if (3)

  • There is swelling or redness behind the ear
  • There is a stiff neck, a bad headache or confusion
  • There is weakness on one side of the face

Written from www.nhs.uk

Similar