Earache & Ear Infection Treatment at Parnell Pharmacy, Bow
Ear infections are a common condition in children and can cause discomfort, irritability and difficulty sleeping. At Parnell Pharmacy, we provide NHS Pharmacy First ear infection consultations in Bow, East London, helping eligible children access assessment and treatment without needing a GP appointment.
What Is an Ear Infection?
An ear infection, also known as acute otitis media, is an infection of the middle ear. It commonly develops following a cold, flu or other upper respiratory tract infection and can cause inflammation and fluid build-up behind the eardrum.
Many ear infections improve on their own within a few days. However, some children may benefit from further treatment following a clinical assessment.
Signs Your Child Has an Ear Infection
Younger children may not always be able to explain where the pain is. Look out for these common signs of an ear infection in Mile End and Bow:
- Tugging, rubbing, or pulling at the ear.
- Irritability, persistent crying, or difficulty sleeping.
- A high temperature (fever).
- Difficulty hearing or not responding to sounds.
- Fluid or discharge leaking from the ear.
- Loss of balance or clumsiness.
How the Pharmacy First Earache Service Works
Under the NHS Pharmacy First service, eligible children can receive assessment and treatment directly from a pharmacist.
During the consultation, our pharmacist will discuss your child’s symptoms, review their medical history and examine the ear using an otoscope. Where clinically appropriate, treatment may be supplied during the same visit.
Age Eligibility for the Earache Service
The NHS Pharmacy First ear infection pathway is available for children and young people aged 1 to 17 years with symptoms consistent with acute otitis media.
If your child’s symptoms require further medical assessment, we will ensure they are referred to the most appropriate healthcare service.
When to Seek Emergency Care
While most ear infections are manageable, you should seek urgent medical help if your child has:
- Swelling around the ear or a very high fever.
- Severe pain that does not respond to painkillers.
- A complete loss of hearing or severe dizziness.
- Fluid, blood, or pus leaking from the ear canal.
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Book online at a time that suits you. Walk-in appointments may also be available for selected services, subject to availability.
Professional Healthcare Advice
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Useful Links:
Visit the resources below for trusted information and the latest updates on earache, treatments, and NHS health advice:
Yes. Under NHS Pharmacy First, our pharmacist can assess and prescribe antibiotics for acute otitis media (middle ear infection) in children aged 1–17.
Yes, for children aged 1–17 who are eligible under the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, the consultation and clinical service are free.
Amoxicillin is typically the first-choice antibiotic for bacterial ear infections. Alternatives are available if your child has a penicillin allergy.
Not always. Many ear infections are viral and will clear on their own with rest and paracetamol. Our pharmacist will assess the severity and only prescribe antibiotics when clinically appropriate.
Infants under 1 year old should see their GP or go to urgent care, as they are not covered by the Pharmacy First earache pathway for safety reasons.
Visit Our Pharmacy in Bow (E3), East London
- Parnell Pharmacy
- Parnell Pharmacy, 625-627 Roman Rd, Bow, London E3 2RN
- 02089803376
- parnell.pharmacy@nhs.net
Quick Links
Pharmacy Info
- GPhC Registration Number : 1040022
- Limited Company Registration No : 07326838
- Superintendent Pharmacist: Shayem Siddiqui
Reach Us
- Name: Parnell Pharmacy
- 625–627 Roman Road, Bow, East London, E3 2RN
- parnell.pharmacy@nhs.net
- 02089803376
Working Hours
- Monday – Saturday: 9:00am – 7:00pm
- Sunday and bank holidays Closed
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Quick Links
Pharmacy Info
- GPhC Registration Number : 1040022
- Limited Company Registration No : 07326838
- Superintendent pharmacist : Shayem Siddiqui
Reach Us
- Name: Parnell Pharmacy
- Parnell Pharmacy, 625-627 Roman Rd, Bow, London E3 2RN
- parnell.pharmacy@nhs.net
- 02089803376
Working Hours
- Mon - Sat : 09.00 am - 07.00 pm
- Sunday and bank holidays Closed