Earache treatment, diagnosis & prescriptions
Skip the waiting room! Instantly connect with Canadian doctors for medical care from your phone, tablet or computer - any time, 24/7.
What is an earache?
Earaches, also known as otalgia, can be due to many different causes. While infections of the middle ear (otitis media) or outer ear (otitis externa) are common causes, other issues such as trauma, throat infections, and sinus infections can all lead to severe ear pain.
Middle ear infection (otitis media) – this is very common in children, and occurs when the middle ear becomes infected. The middle ear is located behind the eardrum and connects to the upper respiratory tract. When it becomes clogged, it creates a perfect environment for germs and bacteria that have entered from the nasal cavity, leading to an ear infection.
Outer ear infection/swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) – this occurs when the outer opening of the ear and the ear canal become infected due to excess moisture. When water is left inside the ear canal, bacteria and/or fungus can rapidly grow.
What are the symptoms of earaches?
Symptoms of earaches differ in children and adults. Symptoms also vary depending on the root cause of the earache.
Common symptoms of otitis media:
- Feeling of fullness in the ear
- Muffled hearing
- Nausea
- Sharp, sudden, and/or continuous pain in the ear
Common symptoms of otitis externa:
- Heat around and in the ear
- Itching
- Muffled hearing
- Pain and general ear discomfort
- Red ears
- Swelling of the ear
- Thick discharge from the ear canal
Common symptoms in children:
- Crying when lying down
- Ear drainage
- Fever
- General irritability and restlessness
- Loss of appetite
- Poor sleep
What is the treatment for earaches?
Ear infections caused by bacteria often resolve on their own within 48 hours. Antibiotics can be taken if the infection does not resolve naturally.
If you have unbearable aches, you can choose to take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
You should see a doctor if:
- Fever rises above 38 C (100.4 F)
- You or your child get repetitive ear infections
- You or your child have difficulty hearing
Meet our doctors
Our physicians are Canadian licensed and practice family or emergency medicine right here in Canada.
Dr. Shafik Dharamshi
ER Physician, Toronto
See All
Dr. Mark D’Souza
ER Physician, Toronto
See All
Dr. Aleksandra Ferenc
Family Physician, Mississauga
See All
Dr. Gita Kruger
Family & Urgent Care, Calgary
See All
Dr. Lana Grigoriou
ER Physician, Toronto
See All
Dr. William Cherniak
ER Physician, Toronto
See All
Dr. Garth Slysz
Family Physician, Charlottetown
See All
Dr. Donald Ginsberg
Family Physician, Montreal
See All
Dr. Bharat Bahl
ER Physician, Toronto
See All
Dr. Peter Iracleous
ER Physician, Toronto
See All
What is Maple?
With Maple, you can start talking to a doctor about your symptoms in a matter of minutes. We’re a healthcare app for fast, convenient 24/7 access to Canadian doctors.
You simply log in, tap a button to request a consultation, and we’ll immediately connect you to a doctor via live chat or video.
Our doctors can assess symptoms, and provide treatment, including prescriptions as necessary.
You can visit our How it Works page to learn more.
Can a doctor treat earaches on Maple?
In many cases, doctors are able to provide treatment for earaches on Maple.
If the doctor suspects you have a more serious problem, they may suggest you go to a clinic for a thorough physical examination.
Can I get a prescription on Maple?
Yes, our physicians can prescribe medications online during your consultation. Once you accept a prescription, you’ll have the option to pick it up from any pharmacy or we’ll deliver it right to your door at no additional cost.
You can visit our How it Works page to learn more.
Saves a lot of time compared to sitting in a doctor's office!
Legitimate and just as described, with fabulous doctors. Totally fills the late-night worry gap!
Not having to endure a long wait at a walk in clinic is fabulous. Especially since I have twin pre-schoolers to contend with.
The service is so quick and professional and saves hours spent in a walk-in-clinic. This is a game changer for busy moms and I recommend it to everyone!
Instead of my husband having to drag both kids to the hospital or walk in alone he was able to see a doctor right away and get a prescription faxed to our local pharmacy.
Our family has used this service twice so far and it has been amazing. Both doctors were friendly, compassionate and you never feel rushed.
Was concerned I wouldn’t be able to see a doctor without an appointment. I installed the Maple app, spoke to a doctor and had my prescription in under 30 min.
I used Maple for the first time today. It was quick and easy, took less than ten minutes including connecting time and the doctor was professional and friendly.
LOVE This service. Not only do you have a doctor within seconds but they are professional and knowledgable.
Absolutely blown away. It was SO easy to use. No wait time getting connected with a doctor. Getting the prescription faxed to the pharmacy made it a seamless process.
Get started today.
Maple revolves around your needs and schedule. Start enjoying on demand healthcare that fits your life.