How to Diagnose an Ear Infection With an Otoscope

It seems that ear infections are a required part of childhood. Most any parent has experienced the fussy baby pulling at his ears or the toddler who can't sleep because her ears hurt and knows they'll be making an unplanned trip to the pediatrician. Your doctor will easily determine if your child does have an ear infection with an otoscope. You can also purchase a home otoscope that is easy to use and can help you decide if the midnight trip to the emergency room is needed or if you can wait until morning to call your doctor.

Things You'll Need

• Otoscope

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Instructions

• 1

  Pull the ear lobe up and towards the back of the head by grabbing the middle of the ear lobe. This will help straighten out the ear canal so that you can see all the way to the ear drum.

• 2

  Gently place the probe end of the otoscope into the ear canal. Do not force the probe into the canal or push it beyond its natural fit. If your child says it is painful then back the probe out some.

• 3

  Look through the eye piece on the otoscope to see into the ear. Normal ears are crooked and will have a grey color, a light reflection and some wax.

• 4

  Compare your child's ear drum to the photos on your otoscope's instruction booklet. If you see any abnormal redness, a buildup of fluid behind the ear drum, pus or a hole in the ear drum you should contact your child's doctor immediately.