Why is an otoscope used in a GP consultation?

An otoscope has a light and a small viewing tip. It allows the GP to see areas beyond the outer ear, including the canal and eardrum. The view may reveal wax, inflammation, fluid, discharge, a perforation, skin changes, or an object in the canal. Findings are interpreted alongside the reason for your visit, such as earache, reduced hearing, ringing, dizziness, discharge, or symptoms after a cold. An otoscope finding does not always provide a diagnosis by itself; the GP may also examine your throat, nose, neck, or general health.

Explain when symptoms began, whether they affect one or both ears, and whether you have used ear drops, hearing devices, or tried to remove wax. Mention recent travel, swimming, injuries, and previous ear procedures where relevant. Keep still while the GP positions the outer ear to obtain a safe view. Do not attempt to clean deep inside your ear with a cotton bud or other object before the visit, as this can push wax further in or irritate the canal.

Seek timely assessment for persistent ear pain, discharge, sudden hearing change, a foreign body, or pain after an injury. Urgent assessment is appropriate if ear symptoms occur with severe headache, facial weakness, marked swelling around the ear, confusion, a stiff neck, or you feel severely unwell. If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, discuss new ear pain or discharge promptly because the assessment may need to be more cautious.

Ask whether the eardrum was fully visible, what the examination suggests, and whether wax is affecting the assessment. You can also ask whether you need treatment, hearing assessment, a follow-up visit, or advice about keeping the ear dry.