What should you know about an otoscope and stethoscope?

An otoscope uses a light and a small speculum to view the ear canal and eardrum. A stethoscope is placed on the chest, back, or abdomen to hear internal sounds that cannot be assessed by looking at the skin. A clinician may use both during one visit when ear symptoms occur alongside cough, breathing difficulty, chest discomfort, or a general illness. Neither tool gives a complete diagnosis on its own; the findings are combined with the history and other checks.

Describe when each symptom began, whether it is getting worse, and any fever, hearing change, cough, or breathlessness. Wear clothing that allows the chest to be examined without delay. For an ear examination, keep still and mention tenderness before the instrument is used. Learn more about the [Otoscope](/technology/otoscope/) and its place in a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/).

Arrange medical advice for persistent ear pain, discharge, new hearing difficulty, or a cough that is not settling. Seek urgent care for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, fainting, sudden hearing loss, or severe chest pain. These warning signs require prompt clinical assessment rather than relying on what either instrument may show.

Ask what the ear examination showed, whether the chest sounds were clear, and which symptom needs monitoring first. Check whether you need treatment, another test, or a planned review, and what change should bring you back sooner.