In some cases, ear infections clear up on their own after a few days and as long as individuals can wait them out and manage the irritation and pain, they will be fine. However, it is important to call a doctor if earache symptoms are more painful or severe, last longer than normal, or display certain criteria potentially indicative of a more serious problem. An individual should see a doctor if their earache symptoms do not improve within 3 days, earaches are occurring regularly as this could lead to hearing loss, body temperature rising over 100.4 degrees with a fever which may suggest a serious infection, pus or bloody fluid discharge from the ear, severe pain, additional symptoms such as headaches, loss of balance, drowsiness, vomiting, or a stiff neck. If an earache displays in a child younger than 6 months old, it is always imperative to seek treatment.