history and examination of the ear

Last reviewed 01/2018

History:

  • earache, irritation
  • deafness
  • discharge
  • tinnitus
  • vertigo
  • speech/language in children

Past medical history:

  • barotrauma
  • acoustic trauma
  • head injury
  • ototoxics
  • family history
  • previous ear surgery

Examination:

  • pinna
  • mastoid
  • otoscopy - ear canal, tympanic membrane
  • Rinne's and Weber's tests
  • nystagmus
  • facial nerve assessment