What should you know about otoscope view of ear?

A clinician uses a lighted otoscope to look through the ear opening. The examination may show earwax, redness, swelling, discharge, a foreign object, or an eardrum that looks dull, bulging, or perforated. A normal view does not explain every ear complaint, because hearing changes, pressure, or inner-ear problems may need other checks. The image is interpreted alongside symptoms, the history of recent infections, and any hearing assessment.

Keep the ear dry if discharge is present and avoid cotton buds, hairpins, or other objects in the canal. Do not put drops into an ear unless a clinician or pharmacist confirms they are suitable, particularly if an eardrum hole is possible. A clinician may recommend observation, prescribed treatment, wax care, or a hearing test depending on what the view shows. Children may need a calm, age-appropriate assessment; a Child Health Consultation can help when ear symptoms affect feeding, sleep, or behaviour.

Arrange medical assessment for significant ear pain, new hearing loss, repeated discharge, fever with worsening symptoms, dizziness, or an object in the ear. Seek urgent help for severe dizziness, facial weakness, or a rapidly worsening illness. A GP Consultation is a suitable starting point when symptoms persist or the cause is unclear.

Ask what was visible in the canal and behind the eardrum, whether wax limited the examination, and whether you need treatment, a hearing check, or follow-up. Ask which ear-care products are appropriate and what changes should prompt earlier review.