Ear Infections: Types, Symptoms and Treatment Options

Understanding ear infections

Ear infections are among the most common reasons people, particularly young children, visit a doctor. Most are uncomfortable but not dangerous, and a large proportion improve without antibiotics. Knowing which type you are dealing with helps you understand what to expect.

The main types

• Middle ear infection (otitis media): infection behind the eardrum, often following a cold. Most common in children.
• Outer ear infection (otitis externa): affects the ear canal, sometimes called "swimmer's ear" because moisture can be a trigger.
• Inner ear problems: these usually cause dizziness or balance issues rather than classic infection symptoms.

Common symptoms

• Earache or a feeling of pressure
• Reduced hearing or a blocked sensation
• Fluid or discharge from the ear
• Fever, especially in children
• Irritability, tugging at the ear, or poor sleep in young children

Why many ear infections clear on their own

Many middle ear infections are viral, and even some bacterial ones settle without treatment as the body fights them off. Because of this, doctors often recommend a "watch and wait" approach for a couple of days in otherwise healthy people, using pain relief while the infection resolves. Antibiotics treat bacteria, not viruses, so they are not always the right answer. You can read more about how these infections work in bacterial infections explained.

Easing symptoms at home

• Use paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain and fever, following the leaflet
• Place a warm flannel against the affected ear for comfort
• Keep the ear dry, particularly with outer ear infections
• Do not insert cotton buds or anything else into the ear canal

When antibiotics may be used

A doctor may consider antibiotics if symptoms are severe, affect both ears, last more than a few days, or occur in very young children or people with other health concerns. Outer ear infections are sometimes treated with antibiotic ear drops rather than tablets. Penicillin-type medicines, such as those covered in our Amoxicillin guide, are commonly prescribed for middle ear infections, and you can explore the broader antibiotics range to understand the choices available.

If prescribed antibiotics, complete the full course as directed. Leftover or unfinished courses contribute to antibiotic resistance explained, which makes future infections harder to treat.

When to see a doctor

Seek medical advice if:

• Symptoms do not improve after about three days
• There is fluid or pus draining from the ear
• The pain is severe or the person is very unwell
• A young child, particularly under two, is affected
• Symptoms keep coming back

Get urgent care for swelling, redness or tenderness behind the ear, a severe headache, a stiff neck, dizziness, or confusion, as these can signal a more serious complication.

Reducing the risk

Good hand hygiene, keeping up with routine childhood vaccinations, avoiding cigarette smoke around children, and drying the ears gently after swimming can all help lower the chance of ear infections.

General information only — not medical advice. Always read the patient information leaflet and consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting any medication.