What Is Acute Otitis Media?
Acute otitis media is a middle ear infection that develops quickly and often follows a cold or upper respiratory infection. It is one of the most common reasons parents seek urgent advice for young children, though adults can be affected too.
1. Sudden Ear Pain
A sharp or throbbing pain in one or both ears is usually the first noticeable sign. In babies and toddlers who cannot describe pain, this may show up as persistent tugging or rubbing at the ear.
2. Fever
A raised temperature often accompanies the infection as the body responds to inflammation in the middle ear.
3. Difficulty Hearing or a Feeling of Fullness
Fluid build-up behind the eardrum can cause muffled hearing or a blocked sensation, similar to being underwater.
4. Irritability or Disturbed Sleep
Pain that worsens when lying down frequently disrupts sleep, particularly in young children, who may become unusually fussy or clingy.
5. Fluid Discharge from the Ear
If the eardrum perforates, a small amount of fluid or discharge may appear. This can bring temporary pain relief but still needs assessment.
6. Balance Problems
Because the middle ear plays a role in balance, some people experience mild dizziness or unsteadiness alongside the infection.
7. Reduced Appetite or Feeding Difficulty in Infants
Sucking and swallowing can change ear pressure and worsen pain, so babies may feed less than usual or seem distressed while feeding.
When to Seek Help
Most ear infections settle within a few days, but symptoms lasting longer than three days, a high fever, severe pain, or discharge warrant a same-day conversation with a healthcare professional.
How Teddington Pharmacy Can Help
Under the NHS Pharmacy First service, our pharmacists can assess earache in children aged one to seventeen and advise on suitable next steps without needing a GP appointment first. If wax build-up is contributing to your symptoms, our Ear Wax Removal service may also be relevant. Visit or contact us to discuss your symptoms with the team.
FAQs
Is acute otitis media contagious?
The infection itself is not usually spread person to person, but the cold or respiratory infection that often precedes it can be.
Can adults get acute otitis media?
Yes, although it is more common in children due to the shape and size of their Eustachian tubes.
Will I definitely need antibiotics?
Not always. Many ear infections resolve without antibiotics. A healthcare professional will assess whether treatment is appropriate based on your symptoms.
Can Teddington Pharmacy prescribe medicine for ear infections?
Through NHS Pharmacy First, our pharmacists can assess eligible earache cases and, where clinically appropriate, provide treatment or refer you on. This service is not suitable for every case, so an assessment is required first.
