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Pain in or around the ear. Can be from ear infection, referred pain, or other causes.
There are several possible causes. Here are the most common ones:
Middle ear infection, common in children.
You might suspect this if you have:
Outer ear canal infection.
You might suspect this if you have:
Pain from throat or jaw.
You might suspect this if you have:
From cold or allergies.
You might suspect this if you have:
Important: This information is for general guidance only and should not be used to self-diagnose. A doctor can properly assess your symptoms and provide appropriate advice.
Call 000 or go to Emergency immediately
Earache in adults most commonly comes from otitis externa (outer ear infection) or referred pain from the throat or jaw — not from middle ear infections, which are far more common in children. The key clinical distinction is whether the pain worsens when you tug on the earlobe (otitis externa — treated with ear drops) or is deep in the ear with hearing changes (otitis media — may need oral antibiotics). Eustachian tube dysfunction during or after a cold is another very common cause of ear discomfort and fullness. I always ask about hearing changes, discharge, and recent swimming or water exposure. The red flag is swelling or tenderness behind the ear (mastoiditis), which requires urgent in-person assessment.
Medical certificate guidance: Ear infections can cause significant pain and reduced hearing that affects work performance. A certificate for 1-3 days is appropriate for acute ear infections, particularly if pain disrupts sleep.
All clinical decisions are made by AHPRA-registered doctors following our clinical governance framework. We never automate clinical decisions.
Many ear infections are viral and resolve on their own. Antibiotics may be needed for bacterial infections — a doctor can assess.
Yes. Ear infections can be painful and affect concentration. Our doctors can provide a certificate.
If your symptoms are keeping you from work or study, you can request a medical certificate through InstantMed. A doctor will review your symptoms and issue a certificate if clinically appropriate — typically for 1 to 3 days depending on severity. You don't need to be dramatically unwell; feeling genuinely too rough to function is reason enough.
Yes. Australian-registered doctors can assess your symptoms and issue valid medical certificates via telehealth. You fill in a detailed health questionnaire, a doctor reviews it, and if appropriate, your certificate is delivered digitally. No waiting room required.
You complete a structured health questionnaire covering your symptoms, duration, severity, and relevant medical history. The reviewing doctor uses this information — the same clinical reasoning they'd apply in a face-to-face consult — to determine whether a certificate, advice, or referral is appropriate.
A medical certificate covers the period stated on the document. If your symptoms worsen or don't improve as expected, you should see a GP in person or visit your nearest emergency department if it's urgent. Your certificate doesn't replace ongoing care — it's a point-in-time clinical assessment.
In some cases, yes. If a doctor reviewing your request determines that a common, non-restricted treatment is appropriate, they may issue a prescription as part of a consultation. Not all symptoms require or qualify for a prescription — the doctor will advise you on next steps.
Medical certificates are typically issued in under 30 minutes, available 24/7. Other requests are reviewed within 1–2 hours during operating hours (8am–10pm AEST, 7 days). You'll receive an email notification once your request has been reviewed.
If your symptoms suggest something that requires a physical examination, diagnostic tests, or specialist referral, the doctor will let you know and recommend appropriate next steps. Your safety is the priority — telehealth is a great option for many things, but it's not a replacement for hands-on assessment when that's what's needed.
No Medicare card is required for medical certificates. If you're requesting a prescription or consultation, a valid Medicare card is needed. Our service is private and does not attract a Medicare rebate, though any prescriptions issued can still attract PBS subsidies at the pharmacy.
Our Australian-registered doctors can assess your symptoms and provide advice, treatment, or medical certificates if needed.
Get assessedThis information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health. Content on this page has been reviewed by AHPRA-registered Australian doctors but does not replace a personalised medical consultation.