Which specialist treats middle ear infection?

A middle ear infection, also called otitis media, can cause ear pain, pressure, fever, reduced hearing, or drainage. The clinician looks in the ear, asks about recent respiratory symptoms, and checks whether the eardrum and surrounding tissues need closer attention. A GP can decide whether monitoring, pain relief, or antibiotic treatment is appropriate. An ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist has additional expertise for ongoing fluid behind the eardrum, repeated episodes, hearing concerns, or suspected complications.

Book a GP appointment if ear symptoms are new, troublesome, or not settling. Tell them when the pain began, whether there has been a fever, ear discharge, hearing change, balance problem, recent cold, or allergy symptoms. Bring a list of medicines and note any previous ear surgery or frequent infections. The GP may arrange an ENT referral after examining you, particularly when symptoms return or hearing remains altered after the infection has improved.

Seek urgent medical assessment for severe worsening ear pain, swelling or redness behind the ear, a stiff neck, confusion, marked drowsiness, weakness of the face, or persistent vomiting. Prompt assessment is also sensible for new vertigo, sudden or major hearing change, or if a young child seems very unwell, drinks poorly, or is difficult to rouse.

Ask whether the eardrum appears inflamed or perforated, whether fluid is present, what symptom relief is suitable, and what change would justify follow-up. If an ENT referral is suggested, ask what the specialist will assess and whether a hearing test may be useful.