Object stuck in the ear or nose

Overview

Button batteries can burn tissue within hours.

A smelly discharge from one nostril may mean a hidden object.

Common objects include beads, beans, small toys, and bugs.

Button batteries can burn tissue in hours and need removal right away.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Something stuck in the ear or nose

Less common

• One-sided smelly discharge
• Pain

When to get medical care

Causes

Curious kids.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Young children

Diagnosis

A clinician looks and removes it.

Treatment

Try simple steps first.

Self-care

• For the nose: close the other nostril and blow gently
• For a bug in the ear: tilt and drip a little mineral oil
• Don't push it further
• Don't use cotton swabs to dig it out

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Keep small items away

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an ENT doctor (ear, nose, and throat doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Children 2 to 5: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Easily removed.

Usually removed quickly with no lasting harm.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Is any part left inside?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Object stuck in the ear or nose