What should you know about an endoscope otoscope?

The device has a handle, light and a narrow viewing tip called a speculum. A clinician gently places the tip at the entrance of the ear and looks for wax, irritation, fluid, swelling, discharge or changes to the eardrum. The examination can help explain ear pain, reduced hearing, itching, a blocked sensation or discharge, but the instrument itself does not diagnose every cause of these symptoms.

Tell the clinician when symptoms began, whether one or both ears are affected, and whether you have had recent swimming, a cold, injury or ear surgery. Do not push cotton buds or other objects into the ear before the visit. If a child needs an examination, a calm explanation and a familiar adult nearby may help; a child health consultation can include an ear check.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for severe ear pain, sudden hearing change, blood or pus from the ear, marked dizziness, facial weakness, or swelling behind the ear. Seek urgent help if an object is lodged in the ear or if symptoms follow a significant injury. A GP consultation is a suitable starting point for persistent or unexplained ear symptoms.

Ask what was seen in the ear, whether wax or inflammation is affecting the view, whether hearing should be checked, and which symptoms should prompt a follow-up visit.