If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Possible poisoning or something swallowed? Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
Overview
Button batteries can burn tissue.
Insects in ears can be floated out.
When to get medical care
Call 911Button battery in ear or nose. Trouble breathing.
Get care todayCan't remove it.
See a doctor soonNot usually urgent.
Causes
Caused by small objects.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause something stuck in the ear or nose. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Object stuck in the ear or noseOften needs care today
Kids often put small things like beads, food, or toys in their ears or noses.
What you can do at home
- Don't use tweezers deep.
Medicines
Provider removes it.
At the doctor
Diagnosed by exam.
Questions you may be asked
- Object
The exam
An ear or nose exam.
Tests
- None
Prevention
Child safety.
- Keep small items away
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.