Boots has launched a private Adult Earache Service, available in over 145 stores across the UK, offering customers a convenient way to access advice and treatment for earache on the high-street.
Earache or ear pain is common and often caused by ear infections or earwax. Earache can be more prevalent during winter months and colder weather, as people are more likely to get viral infections that can lead to ear infections. Typically, most earaches get better on their own, but if symptoms persist, then medical advice should be sought.
The Boots Adult Earache Service* provides a convenient way to get support on the high street. It includes a consultation with a specially trained pharmacist or nurse, who will examine the ears and provide treatment when appropriate or signpost to a different service if required.
Customers may be referred to other services such Boots Ear Wax Removal* or Boots Hearingcare services.
Claire Nevinson, Superintendent Pharmacist at Boots said: “The launch of our Earache Service provides adults with easy access to the healthcare support they need, when they need it. It builds on pre-existing ear services available in our stores, which include NHS Pharmacy First in England and our private Ear Wax Removal Service.
“The expansion of our offering in ear health allows us to offer seamless end-to-end care for customers, connecting them to healthcare advice alongside products and services. It’s a great example of how people can use Boots as a first port of call for a growing range of healthcare needs, right on the high street.”
Each appointment takes around 25 minutes and costs start from £25 per consultation. Customers aged 18 and over are eligible and can simply walk into a participating store or book an appointment online at boots.com.
Claire Nevinson also shares her top tips on how to help stay well and help avoid earaches this winter.
- Practice good hygiene
“In the winter we can be at increased risk of getting earaches, as we are more likely to get viruses including cold and flu that can also affect the ears. One way to help protect ourselves and others from contracting winter illnesses includes practicing good hygiene. You should wash your hands often with warm water and soap, especially after being in public places, before eating or after blowing your nose.”
- Don’t aggravate your ears
“If your ears feel blocked or as if there is pressure, you should not put anything inside your ear to try to omit the sensation. This includes things such as cotton buds or your finger, as this could make it worse or damage the ear.
“In the first few days of feeling symptoms, you can consider using pain relief such as paracetamol or
ibuprofen. However, if symptoms persist, you should visit a healthcare professional.”
- Protect your ears from the cold and noise
“Many factors can cause irritation in the ears. This includes everything from cold wind, loud noises, infections, wax build up or even swimming. To help look after your ears, in the cold weather you could consider wearing earmuffs or hats that cover your ears and keep volume low when listening to music through earphones.”
The Adult Earache Service is the latest addition to Boots expanding range of over 180 healthcare services, which are delivered in-store on behalf of the NHS as well as privately, alongside digital private services powered by Boots Online Doctor.
Through NHS Pharmacy First Service**, Boots pharmacies in England can also provide patients with access to advice and treatment including prescription-only medicines for common conditions, including earache in children aged one to 17 years old.
*Eligibility criteria and charges apply. In selected pharmacies, subject to availability.
**Supply of treatment is subject to a suitability assessment. In most stores in England only. Subject to availability and store opening hours. Charges may apply.
