EARACHE
Earache is a very unpleasant condition. It is often, though not always, due to an ear infection called otitis media. Also, in very young children we may find an ear infection on examination of an ill patient who hasn't got any obvious ear symptoms. It is rarely dangerous nowadays and definitive treatment with antibiotics is not always necessary but when it is it can usually wait for the next working day. The eardrum may sometimes rupture releasing some blood and pus but this needn't cause undue alarm as this usually leads to the relief of symptoms and provided the ear is kept dry for a couple of weeks whilst the drum is healing over and then checked for completed healing by us in a routine surgery appointment no long-term harm should ensue.
In the first instance pain relief, usually with the maximum dose of paracetamol recommended for the age group, is important. Remember antibiotics are not painkillers! Before calling for further advice (unless the patient's condition gives cause for concern in other ways) do give an adequate dose of paracetamol (or whatever painkiller you are using) and give it time to work (at least 30 mins.). Also, if you are waiting for the doctor there is no reason to wait to be told that it is okay to give paracetamol for this condition.
If the painkillers fail to work or the patient isn't keeping the medication down then call us for further advice.