Quick Assessment and Treatment for Acute Otitis Media in Children
Is your child suffering from a painful earache? Don’t let them suffer while waiting for a GP appointment. At Your Local Erdington Pharmacy (B24 8EH), we provide fast, expert assessment and treatment for Acute Otitis Media (AOM), a common type of ear infection, under the NHS Pharmacy First Service.
Stop the spread and start treatment today!
The Earache Pharmacy First Service Explained
Acute Otitis Media (ear infection) is one of the seven common conditions our pharmacists can assess and treat. We are equipped to look inside the ear and, if necessary, prescribe medication to help your child feel better quickly.
Who is eligible?
This service is for children and young people aged 1 to 17 years with symptoms of an earache or suspected ear infection.
(Please note: Adults aged 18 and over with earache can still receive expert advice and non-prescription treatments from the pharmacist, but are not covered by the Pharmacy First prescription pathway for this condition.)
Signs of Acute Otitis Media (AOM)
You should visit us if your child has:
- Earache or sharp pain in the ear.
- In younger children: Holding, tugging, or rubbing of the ear(s).
- Non-specific symptoms like a fever, crying/irritability, poor feeding, or restlessness.
What to expect during your visit
Walk In or Call
No appointment is needed. Bring your child into the pharmacy at your convenience.
Private Consultation
The pharmacist will speak with you in our private consultation room.
Clinical Examination
The pharmacist will ask about the symptoms and use an otoscope to look inside the affected ear(s). This is essential for a proper assessment of the ear drum.
Treatment Plan
- Pain Relief & Self-Care: Most ear infections are viral and clear up on their own. We will first provide advice and can supply suitable pain relief (paracetamol or ibuprofen).
- Antibiotics: For severe cases, or if the infection meets specific NHS criteria (e.g., the child is under 2 years old with a bilateral infection and symptoms for more than 3 days), the pharmacist can supply antibiotics under the NHS service.
- Referral. If the pharmacist suspects a severe complication (like mastoiditis) or another serious issue, they will refer your child to your GP, NHS 111, or an urgent care service.
GP Notification
We will update your child’s GP with the consultation and treatment details.
Benefits of Visiting Your local Erdington Pharmacy for Earache
Quick Access
Convenience
Expert Diagnosis
NHS-Funded Treatment
Find Us
Your Local Erdington Pharmacy
238 Wheelwright Road, Erdington, Birmingham, B24 8EH
Opening Hours:
Monday -Friday : 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sunday : Closed
Call Us: 0121 377 8811
If your child is suffering from earache, visit your local Erdington pharmacist for expert assessment and care.
Disclaimer: The NHS Pharmacy First service for earache is available for children and young people aged 1 to 17 years and is subject to clinical assessment and patient eligibility. Standard NHS prescription charges apply unless the patient is exempt.