Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. A home ear exam is a visual inspection of the ear canal and eardrum using a device called an otoscope. An otoscope is a handheld device with a light, a magnifying lens, and a funnel-shaped viewing piece. It has a narrow, pointed end called a speculum that you put inside the ear canal. You can buy this device without a prescription at pharmacies and other retail stores. Some models can connect to your phone and take pictures. This may be helpful in some cases if you have an online visit with your doctor. Ask your doctor. It can be hard to learn to use an otoscope. If you buy one, be sure to read and follow the instructions that come with it. Never use a home otoscope to diagnose or treat ear problems. If you have concerns about an ear problem, go to your doctor for an ear exam. Always read and follow the use and cleaning instructions that came with your otoscope. Here are some tips for safely doing a home ear exam. The pointed end of the otoscope can scrape the skin of the ear canal. So make sure that you insert the otoscope slowly and carefully. Scraping the lining of the ear canal rarely causes bleeding or infection. But be careful to avoid pain or injury. An otoscope can push an object closer to the eardrum. If you see an object in the ear, do not move the otoscope forward. Don't try to remove the object. Seek medical help. There is a slight risk of damaging the eardrum if the otoscope is inserted too far into the ear canal. Do not move the otoscope forward if it feels like something is blocking it. Current as of: February 28, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Next Section: Previous Section: Current as of: February 28, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2023 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Home Ear Examination
Overview
Tips for doing a home ear
exam
Risks of a home ear
exam
Related Information
Credits
Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: February 28, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.Home Ear Examination