Foreign Object Ear Nose

Small objects and insects in ears and noses, common in children

Step by Step

Children push beads, food, and toy parts into ears and noses. Do not probe with cotton buds or tweezers, which push objects deeper and can damage the ear drum. Leave removal to a clinic or emergency department, where tools and magnification make it safe. One exception: a live insect in the ear can be killed by gently pouring lukewarm water or olive oil into the canal, letting it float out; otherwise keep the ear still. Nose objects risk being inhaled: ask the child to breathe through the mouth and seek same day care, and do not try to sniff objects backward. Signs of something stuck include one sided foul discharge, pain, or a child constantly poking the nose or ear. Button batteries anywhere in the ear or nose are emergencies: go immediately.