Ear Infection Treatment at Herbert & Shrive Pharmacy 

If you’re experiencing ear pain, discomfort, or trouble hearing, it might be an ear infection, and we’re here to help. At Herbert & Shrive Pharmacy, we provide professional ear infection treatment following NHS guidelines. Conveniently located in Teddington & Kingston Upon Thames, we also welcome patients from Hampton Wick, Richmond, and Twickenham. 

Our pharmacists are trained to assess your symptoms and help you decide whether further treatment or a referral is needed. 

What Is an Ear Infection?

An ear infection is an inflammation inside the ear, usually caused by a cold, flu, or another type of infection. Most ear infections are not serious and can clear up on their own. However, if symptoms persist, it’s important to seek help. 

There are two main types of ear infections: 

  • Middle ear infection (otitis media) – common in children, but can affect adults too.
  • Outer ear infection (otitis externa) – often caused by water or irritation from earbuds or hearing aids. 

Ear Infection Symptoms and Treatment

Common ear infection symptoms include:

  • Earache or sharp pain in the ear. 
  • Feeling pressure or fullness inside the ear.
  • Mild hearing loss.
  • Fluid leaking from the ear.
  • Itchiness in or around the ear.
  • Fever (particularly in children).
  • Trouble sleeping or irritability in young children

Most ear infections clear up within 3 days, but some can take up to a week. During this time, you can:

  • Take pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen – follow dosing instructions or ask your pharmacist, especially for children.  
  • Use a warm cloth against the ear for comfort.
  • Avoid getting the ear wet.
  • Avoid using ear drops or oils unless advised. 

When to Seek Help

Visit us or contact your GP if: 

  • Your symptoms don’t improve after 3 days.
  • There is a lot of pain or swelling.
  • Fluid or pus is leaking from the ear.
  • You experience hearing loss.
  • You keep getting ear infections. 

At Herbert & Shrive Pharmacy, we’re happy to assess your symptoms and help you understand how to treat ear infections effectively. 

Do You Need Antibiotics?

Ear infection antibiotics are not always necessary. According to NHS advice, antibiotics are only prescribed if: 

  • Symptoms are severe
  • Symptoms haven’t improved after 3 days.
  • There’s a high risk of complications. 

Our pharmacy team can help determine whether antibiotics are needed or suggest the best course of action. 

NHS-Guided Care, Close to Home

You don’t need to wait to see your GP. We follow NHS guidelines and offer professional advice and support for ear infection symptoms and treatment. We’re conveniently based in Teddington & Kingston Upon Thames, also serving people from Hampton Wick, Richmond, and Twickenham. 

Speak to Us Today

Don’t suffer in silence. If you’re unsure whether it’s an ear infection or how to deal with it, contact us at on +44 (0)20 8977 1967 and speak to our expert team. No appointment is needed – just walk in and we’ll take care of the rest. 

We pride ourselves on offering our customers a quick, efficient service.

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