What should you know about an otoscope speculum?

The speculum creates a viewing path between the otoscope and the ear canal. Its tapered shape helps the clinician see the canal walls and eardrum without placing the wider instrument itself inside the ear. A suitable size is selected for the person being examined, especially for a young child or a narrow canal. The attachment should be clean and intact; a single-use tip may be used to reduce transfer of germs between patients.

You may be asked to keep still while the clinician gently adjusts the outer ear to straighten the canal. Tell them before the examination if the ear is very tender, has recently been injured, or has had surgery. Do not push a household object or an unclean speculum into the ear. After the examination, follow the clinician’s advice about drops, wax removal, or monitoring symptoms. An [Otoscope](/technology/otoscope/) provides the light and magnification used with the speculum.

Arrange an assessment for significant ear pain, reduced hearing, fluid or blood from the ear, fever with ear symptoms, or an object stuck in the canal. Seek urgent care for severe pain after an injury, sudden hearing loss, marked dizziness, or weakness of the face. These symptoms need attention because an examination may identify injury, infection, or a problem beyond surface earwax.

Ask which part of the ear looked irritated, whether the eardrum could be seen clearly, and whether wax or swelling affected the view. You can also ask whether an ear drop is appropriate and what changes should prompt a follow-up [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/).