What should you know about littmann otoscope?

The device has a light and viewing system, usually with a clean disposable or reusable speculum fitted at the tip. A clinician gently positions it at the entrance of the ear to look for wax, swelling, discharge, a foreign object or changes to the eardrum. The instrument supports an examination; it does not by itself identify every cause of pain, hearing change or dizziness. Both ears may be compared, and the outer ear and nearby throat may also be checked.

Bring details of pain, fever, discharge, reduced hearing, recent swimming, injury and any object placed in the ear. Do not insert cotton buds or try to remove a suspected deep object before the visit. A GP Consultation can assess adults, while a Child Health Consultation may be suitable for a child. Tell the clinician if touching the ear is painful or if there is a history of eardrum surgery.

Seek urgent medical advice for sudden hearing loss, severe pain after an injury, blood or pus from the ear, a lodged object, swelling behind the ear, facial weakness, or dizziness with difficulty walking. A child who is very drowsy, seriously unwell or difficult to settle also needs prompt assessment. Avoid using ear drops unless a clinician has considered whether the eardrum is intact.

Ask what the examination showed, whether wax or infection is present, whether hearing needs testing, which treatments are safe, and when a recheck is needed.