What should you know about good otoscope?

An otoscope lets a clinician inspect the ear canal and, when visible, the eardrum. It can help identify wax, redness, discharge, swelling, a foreign object or changes that fit an ear infection. A clear-looking view does not explain every cause of ear pain or hearing change, and a device image cannot replace questions, examination and follow-up.

Home examination is risky when the tip is pushed into the canal: it can cause pain, bleeding or damage to the eardrum. Do not use cotton buds, sharp objects or ear drops unless a clinician or pharmacist has advised them, particularly if there is discharge, a known perforation or previous ear surgery. For a child, a child health consultation can provide an age-appropriate examination. A GP consultation is suitable for many new ear concerns.

Seek urgent medical help for sudden hearing loss, severe dizziness, facial weakness, blood or pus from the ear, an object stuck in the ear, or severe pain with swelling behind the ear. Arrange assessment for ongoing pain, fever, reduced hearing, repeated discharge, ringing or symptoms after an injury. Babies and young children with marked distress, fever or feeding difficulty should be assessed promptly.

What did you see in my ear canal and eardrum? Is wax, infection or another problem affecting my hearing? Should I use drops or keep the ear dry? When should I return if symptoms continue?