What should you know about visual otoscope?

The clinician may look for wax blocking the canal, swelling, discharge, irritation, a foreign object or changes to the eardrum. A normal-looking view does not explain every cause of ear pain or reduced hearing, so symptoms and the rest of the examination still matter. The device may include a small disposable tip and bright light; it should be used gently, particularly when examining a child.

Tell the clinician about pain, fever, discharge, hearing change, dizziness, recent swimming, injury or anything placed in the ear. Do not insert cotton buds, hairpins or drops unless a clinician has advised them, because these can irritate the canal or affect the examination. A GP Consultation can assess common ear concerns, while a Child Health Consultation may be appropriate for a young child.

Arrange prompt assessment for severe ear pain, discharge, sudden hearing loss, a lodged object, swelling behind the ear or significant dizziness. Seek urgent help after a head injury if there is fluid or blood from the ear, confusion, weakness or severe worsening symptoms. Do not attempt to remove a deep object yourself.

What did you see in my ear canal and eardrum? Could wax, infection or injury explain my symptoms? Do I need treatment, a hearing test or follow-up?