Pneumatic otoscope: what to know

The device has a light, a magnifying viewing piece, and a soft attachment that forms a seal at the ear opening. Gentle pressure changes can make a healthy eardrum move. Reduced movement may suggest fluid behind the eardrum, inflammation, or a blockage, but the finding must be interpreted with pain, fever, hearing changes, and the rest of the examination. It is especially useful when a child has suspected middle-ear fluid or infection.

The clinician will look into the ear and may ask you or your child to keep still while the pressure is changed briefly. Tell them about ear pain, discharge, previous ear surgery, a perforated eardrum, or marked sensitivity before the test. The examination usually happens during a GP Consultation or Child Health Consultation. Do not put cotton buds or objects into the ear while waiting for assessment.

Arrange medical review for severe ear pain, new hearing loss, fluid or blood from the ear, fever with a very unwell child, dizziness, or swelling behind the ear. Seek urgent help if there is facial weakness, severe headache, confusion, or a child is difficult to wake. A pneumatic otoscope is an assessment tool, not a treatment, so persistent symptoms need follow-up.

Did the eardrum move normally? Is there fluid or inflammation? Could hearing be affected, and when should the ear be checked again?