Care for a healthier you
Earache advice
For children and young people with earache, a pharmacist can assess symptoms and check whether the Pharmacy First pathway is appropriate. A parent or carer should attend with a child.

How the pharmacy can help
Start with a conversation about your symptoms. We’ll ask when they began, what you have already tried and about your medical history. The pharmacist will check eligibility and explain whether pharmacy treatment is appropriate.
Who is this pathway for?
Ages 1–17. Additional clinical criteria apply. If the service is not suitable, we can advise where to seek help.
What to bring
- A list of your medicines and allergies.
- Details of any treatment you have already tried.
- Information about pregnancy, recurring symptoms or other health conditions.
When to seek help sooner
If symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening or you feel very unwell, use NHS 111 for urgent advice. For a life-threatening emergency, call 999.
Will I receive antibiotics?
Only if the pharmacist assesses that they are clinically appropriate under the service. Many symptoms improve with self-care and do not need antibiotics.
What if I am outside the age range?
You can still ask the pharmacy for general advice. The pharmacist will explain other care options or recommend another service.
Read more about how pharmacies can help.
A little closer to better health.
Choose your service and request a time that works for you.
