Ear infections can affect different parts of the ear and have several possible causes. A middle-ear infection behind the eardrum, for example, is different from an infection affecting the outer ear canal.
Symptoms can sometimes feel similar, so a professional assessment can help determine the most appropriate treatment.
At The Village Pharmacy in Writtle, Chelmsford, our pharmacists can discuss your symptoms, examine the ear where needed and recommend suitable self-care, treatment or further medical assessment.
Many ear infections improve without antibiotics. Our team can help you understand how to manage your symptoms and when additional care may be necessary.
Common ear infection symptoms
Not every earache is caused by an infection. Earwax, pressure changes and other conditions can also cause discomfort.
Who may benefit from a pharmacy assessment?
Our pharmacy team can provide advice if you or your child:
NHS Pharmacy First eligibility
The NHS Pharmacy First pathway for acute otitis media (middle-ear infection) is available to:
Important information:
Contact or visit the pharmacy
If you or your child is experiencing earache or suspected ear infection symptoms, contact The Village Pharmacy or book a Pharmacy First consultation.
Pharmacist assessment
Our pharmacist will ask about your symptoms, including how long they have been present, their severity, any hearing changes, relevant medical history and medicines you take.
Examination and treatment advice
Where appropriate, the pharmacist may examine the ear and recommend suitable self-care, pain relief or treatment. Eligible children may receive NHS Pharmacy First treatment based on the clinical assessment.
Aftercare or referral
You’ll receive guidance on managing symptoms, what to expect during recovery and when to seek further help. If needed, our pharmacist can advise on referral to a GP or another healthcare service.
At The Village Pharmacy, eligible children and young people aged 1–17 can receive an NHS-funded Pharmacy First consultation for acute otitis media.
Our pharmacist will assess the symptoms, determine whether the patient meets the clinical pathway criteria and recommend suitable treatment or further care.
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| NHS Pharmacy First Consultation | Free for eligible patients |
| NHS Medicine (where supplied) | Standard NHS prescription charges or exemptions apply |
| Over-the-Counter Treatment | Charged separately where applicable |
Adults and patients who do not meet the Pharmacy First criteria can still ask our pharmacy team for advice about their symptoms and appropriate next steps.
What’s included
Before your appointment
After your appointment
Most ear infections are not serious, but some symptoms require prompt medical attention.
Seek urgent medical advice through your GP or NHS 111 if you or your child experiences:
Do not use ear drops without professional advice if you suspect a perforated eardrum, as some products may not be suitable.
Call 999 or go to A&E for a serious or life-threatening emergency.
Further information:
If you or your child is experiencing earache or symptoms of an ear infection, our pharmacy team can help you understand your treatment options.
Eligible children aged 1-17 may receive NHS Pharmacy First assessment and treatment for middle-ear infections without needing a GP appointment first.
Booking information:
