Ear Infections & Earache: What to Know
Earaches are common in children and adults alike. Here's what causes them, what helps, and when an earache needs to be seen.
Most earaches come from treatable infections
Common in children, often after a cold
Some improve alone; some need treatment
Same-day assessment for all ages
Ear pain is uncomfortable and worrying, especially in children, but most earaches are caused by infections that can be assessed and managed. Here's what to know.
What causes earache
Earaches often come from infections of the middle ear (common in children, frequently after a cold) or the ear canal. Pain can also be referred from the jaw, teeth, or throat. The cause guides the right approach, which is why assessment helps.
Related readingSore throat guidanceEar pain often travels with a sore throat — here's when to check.What can help
Appropriate over-the-counter pain relief and warmth can ease discomfort while the cause is sorted out. Many ear infections improve on their own, but some need treatment — particularly depending on age and severity.
When to see a doctor
Seek care for significant or persistent ear pain, discharge from the ear, hearing changes, fever, or earache in a young child. Severe pain with high fever, swelling or redness behind the ear, or feeling very unwell needs prompt attention.
How iCollab can help
Our walk-in physicians assess earaches for all ages, often the same day, and advise whether treatment is needed — no family doctor required.
This is general information, not medical advice.
Have a concern you'd like looked at?
Book with an iCollab physician, or ask at the walk-in clinic.
Ear Infections & Earache: What to Know — FAQ
Do ear infections need antibiotics?+
When should a child's earache be seen?+
What eases ear pain?+
Can I be seen the same day?+
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