Advice for acute ear pain

English language skills usually help in advising foreign-language customers. Especially in the case of severe earaches, those affected first seek quick help in the pharmacy to relieve their symptoms.

The most important message to those affected is: Bad earache is always a reason to see a doctor immediately. This is particularly the case if children are affected.

Painkillers or analgesic ear drops should only be used for interim relief, until it is possible to see a doctor. Painkillers cannot replace a visit to the doctor and his professional anamnesis.

Information and questions

• How long have you had these symptoms?
• Has your hearing been impaired?
• Are there any additional health complaints?
• Do you also have a temperature?
• Is fluid leaking from the ear?
• I can give you some pills for the pain.
• I can give you ear drops for the pain.
• It is imperative, however, that you still see a doctor immediately. Only he can find the cause of the pain.
• Would you like me to recommend a doctor to you?
• Would you like me to phone him to make an appointment?
• Would you like to take the pills right now?

Additional information

• The nose drops ensure that the nasal mucous membrane is decongested and the accumulated secretion flows off more easily. This will also ease the pressure on the ears.
• If you dissolve tablets in water, they will work faster.
• You should drink two to three litres of fluid daily.
• Please do not take more than two painkillers at one time.
• Do not take more than four tablets in one day (depending on the instruction leaflet).
• In the case of minor complaints, warmth, for example from red light, can accelerate the healing process.

Hints for ear drops

• Cold ear drops feel very unpleasant inside the ear. You should therefore warm the ear drops to body temperature with your hands.
• It is best to lie on your side when you put the drops in your ear. After that, plug the ear with a wad.
• Stay lying down for about 15 minutes to allow the drops to work on the ear
• Note the producer’s dosage ins