Otoscope Uses

An otoscope is a hand-held medical device that allows the user to light and magnify a small orifice in the body to monitor a patient's health in a particular area. These devices have a battery case in the handle and a magnifying head with detachable specula of different sizes, depending upon the use. Traditionally, these scopes are used by physicians to monitor patients' ears and throats, but they also have other practical uses.

Examine The Ears

• An otoscope is traditionally used by physicians to examine a patient's ears, making sure that the eardrum is intact and that there are no abnormalities in the anatomy of the ear. It also checks for wax buildup, and can identify infections.

Examine The Throat

• An otoscope may be used to illuminate and magnify the throat, in conjunction with a tongue depressor. The physician can check for any abnormalities in the tonsils and any irritation or infection in the back of the throat.

Examine The Nose

• The physician can use an otoscope to examine nasal passages, using a special speculum. The light and magnification allows the user to check for a deviated septum, dryness, infection, swelling and other physical issues that may lead to airway obstruction or difficulty breathing.

Examine The Skin

• The tissue of infants and adults can be monitored for a host of different conditions. The combination of the light and magnification make the otoscope a great tool for close-up inspection of the skin.

Examine The Eyes

• Physicians and ophthalmologists can use an otoscope to examine a patient's eyes. This includes making sure that the pupils dilate correctly, magnifying the retina and iris, and detecting cataracts early.

Veterinary Uses

• The otoscope is not limited to human use. Veterinarians can use the scope to examine the ears, eyes, nose and throat of animal patients, as well. Monitoring the ears of dogs and cats is critical to the prevention of infection and parasites.