Children stick small objects up their noses and ears for fun, because they don't yet realise the consequences of not being able to get the objects out.

 

If an object is stuck in the mouth or nose, the airways are not blocked, so there is no need to panic. Stay calm and make it clear to the child that there is no need to panic either. The greatest danger is pushing the object deeper into the ear canals or nostrils, where it can cause damage, so proceed with calm and caution.

If the object is fairly close to the opening and the child is sitting very still, tweezers are useful. Objects that are deeper and difficult to reach should be removed by a doctor.

Foreign bodies can often be removed from the nose by holding the other nostril closed and blowing vigorously through the affected nostril.

It is important to take the child to the doctor immediately if you are unable to remove the object yourself. The longer a foreign body is stuck in the ear or nose, the more complications can occur. The mucous membranes can swell, for example, or a button battery can secrete toxins.

 

Children do not always notice when a small foreign body is stuck in their nose. If this is the case, one side of the nose may secrete foul-smelling mucus after one or two days. The child may also feel pressure or pain or have a slight nosebleed.

If something is stuck in the ear, the child first notices that sounds are different. A secretion can also be released from the ear if the object remains stuck for a long time.

 

A doctor has various tools and means of removing foreign bodies from the nose and ear. Metal objects can be pulled out with special magnets. An insect lodged in the ear is first suffocated with oil and then removed with special tweezers.

If an infection has already developed, the doctor may prescribe an antibiotic.

 

The only way to prevent children from putting objects in their nose and ears is to explain to them how dangerous this can be and what damage foreign objects can cause.