What should you know about insufflator for otoscope?

During an examination, a clinician seals the otoscope tip carefully at the entrance of the ear canal and applies controlled pressure. The eardrum may move when the pressure changes. This can add information about middle-ear fluid or pressure, alongside the appearance of the ear canal and eardrum.

Reduced or absent movement can be one finding associated with fluid behind the eardrum, inflammation or pressure problems, but it is not a diagnosis on its own. Earwax, discomfort, a narrow canal or a damaged eardrum can affect whether the test is suitable or easy to interpret.

The clinician may first use an Otoscope to inspect the ear. The insufflator is not a home device for probing or blowing into the ear, and it should not be used without training.

Tell the clinician about ear surgery, ear tubes, discharge, a known hole in the eardrum or significant pain before the examination. Sit still and say if the pressure feels painful; the assessment can be stopped and another method considered.

Avoid putting cotton buds, oils or objects into the ear beforehand. A GP Consultation can help assess new ear symptoms, while a Child Health Consultation may be appropriate when a child has ear pain, fever or changes in hearing.

Seek urgent medical advice for sudden hearing loss, severe dizziness, facial weakness, swelling behind the ear, blood or pus from the ear, or a high fever with a very unwell appearance. Do not wait for an insufflator examination if these symptoms are present.

What did you see in the ear canal and behind the eardrum? Was the pressure test suitable for me? Could earwax or a perforation affect the result? Do I need hearing assessment, treatment or review?