Fact Checked
An object lodging into the ear can cause serious complications and severe pain. The object cannot be dislodged easily and an otoscope has to be used to detect the object.
An object might be inserted intentionally when a person uses cotton swabs or toothpicks for cleaning the ear off when children poke small objects into the ear. The ear is also affected when an insect enters the ear. Often adults are able to tell when an object enters the ear but children tend to be less aware.
Symptoms
- Pain
- Discomfort
- Dizziness
- Dry cough
- Blood drainage from the ear
- Infection
- Tickling sensation when an insect enters the ear or when it bites
- Hearing loss
Treatment
When an object gets lodged in the ear, follow these steps:
- Do not poke the ear with a cotton swab, toothpick, match stick or any other item to dislodge the foreign object as you may push the object further inwards into the ear canal causing further damage to the sensitive structure of the ear.
- If the object is visible to you, gently use a pair of tweezers to remove it. Do not rush or be reckless you may push the object inside.
- If the object is not very far inside or has not been completely lodged into the ear canal, encourage gravity to pull it out by simply tilting your head on the side of the affected ear.
- In case of an insect entering the ear, use oils to dislodge it. You may use baby oil, mineral oil or olive oil in the person’s ear to allow the insect to either suffocate in the oil or float above it. Straighten the ear canal to allow the oil to enter properly. For adults, you may gently pull the earlobe upward and backward and for a child, you should pull it downwards and upward. Oil should not be used for any other object except for an insect. You can detect an insect by the tingly sensation you will feel when an insect crawls into your ear or bites it. Do not use oil if the child is wearing an ear tube or if you suspect that the eardrum has been perforated. Do not use oil if there is any sharp pain or discharge such as blood coming out of the ear.
- If pain or discomfort remains persistent and if any of the methods you applied fails, visit your doctor immediately.
Learn More
Learn more about head and neck injuries and emergencies by taking workplace approved training courses.