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Treating Middle Ear Infections
Key Information
- Usually Viral: Most middle ear infections are caused by viruses, not bacteria.
- Antibiotics Often Unnecessary: Antibiotics do not work on viruses and usually make little difference to recovery in children over two.
- Natural Recovery: Earache typically improves within about 3 days on its own.
The Best Treatment: Pain Relief
Since the body fights the infection naturally, the main goal is comfort.
- Action: Give paracetamol or ibuprofen (check the label for correct dosing).
- Benefit: This reduces pain and fever, helping your child feel much more comfortable.
- The Risk of Unnecessary Antibiotics: Antibiotics can cause side effects such as rashes or diarrhoea.
When Do We Prescribe Antibiotics?
There are specific situations where antibiotics may be appropriate:
- Severity: Your child has discharge from the ear and appears particularly unwell.
- Age/Extent: Your child is under two years old and has infections in both ears.
What Happens Next?
Start with pain relief and plenty of comfort.
If symptoms do not improve after 7 days, or your child seems to be getting more unwell, please contact us.
Further Information
Outer Ear Infection: Causes and Care
For more advice on preventing and treating ear infections, please visit the NHS website.
Learn more about ear infections
Last reviewed: 31 December 2025
Next review due: 31 December 2028
Providing NHS Services
Telephone: 01727 853107