Ear infection assessment in Glasgow,
free on the NHS.
Our prescribing pharmacist at Muirend Pharmacy can assess ear pain and infections and provide treatment where clinically appropriate — covering both outer ear and middle ear conditions.
Cost
Free NHS service
Eligibility
Adults & children 1+
Duration
15 minutes
Who this is for
This service is for adults and children aged 1 and over with symptoms of an ear infection — including infections of the outer ear canal (otitis externa) or middle ear (otitis media).
Common symptoms
- ·Ear pain or aching, which may be severe
- ·A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- ·Reduced or muffled hearing
- ·Itching or irritation inside the ear canal
- ·Discharge or fluid from the ear
- ·In children: pulling or tugging at the ear, irritability
This service is not suitable if you have
- ·A perforated eardrum
- ·A very high fever alongside ear pain
- ·Sudden significant hearing loss
- ·Facial weakness on one side
- ·Dizziness or balance problems
- ·A child under 12 months old
Eligibility is always confirmed at assessment. We'll direct you appropriately if the service isn't suitable.
What happens at your appointment
01
Book
Book online or call us. Complete a brief health questionnaire before attending.
02
Examination
Our pharmacist examines the ear and assesses your symptoms to determine the type and severity of the infection.
03
Treatment
Where clinically appropriate, treatment is provided. Different treatment is given for outer and middle ear infections.
04
Advice
You receive clear advice on self-care and what to do if symptoms don't improve or get worse.
When to seek urgent care
Go to A&E immediately or call 999 if you experience sudden hearing loss, facial weakness or drooping, severe dizziness or loss of balance, swelling or redness behind the ear, or a very high fever with ear pain. These may indicate a serious complication.
Clinically reviewed by
James McKeever
Superintendent Pharmacist · GPhC reg. 1042294
Last reviewed: 17 June 2026