Foreign Body in Ear: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Foreign bodies in the ear, relatively common in an emergency, are most often, but not exclusively, seen in children. Various objects can be found in the ear, including toys, beads, stones, folded paper, and biological materials such as insects or seeds. Most foreign objects in the ear and nose can be removed with minimal risk of complications. Common removal methods include the use of forceps, water irrigation, and a suction catheter.
- Foreign Objects in the Ear
- Foreign objects in the ear are common reasons for emergency room visits, especially among children.
- Most of these things are harmless, but some can be extremely uncomfortable, and others can quickly cause infection requiring emergency treatment.
- If you are unsure of the potential for foreign body damage, seek medical attention immediately.
- Most objects stuck in the ear canal are placed there by the person themselves, often by curious children.
- Common Thing Found in the Ear
- Pearls
- Food (especially seeds)
- Paper
- Q-tips
- Rubber erasers
- Small toys
- Marbles
- Small seashells
- Earwax
- Earwax is a substance naturally present in the ear canal but can become a problem when it builds up and obstructs the ear canal, causing hearing loss or pain.
- Excessive use of cotton swabs such as Q-Tips to clean the ear can actually push wax and cellular debris from the skin further into the canal and press them against the eardrum, causing symptoms.
- Insects
- Insects can also fly or crawl in the ear canal, often by sleeping on the ground or outdoors.
- This can be a frightening and dramatic event because the buzzing and movements of the insect are very loud and sometimes painful.
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What are the causes of a foreign body in the ear?
Objects in the Ear: Signs and Effects
Some objects placed in the ear may not cause immediate signs. However, other object, such as:
- Food
- Bugs
- Other foreign bodies
Can cause various symptoms, including:
If an object blocks the ear canal, it can affect hearing.
What are the signs and symptoms of an Ear Foreign Bodies?
- Feeling like something is in your ear
- Trouble hearing
- Ear pain
- Redness, itching, or bleeding in your ear
- Thick drainage or a foul odor coming from your ear
- Nausea or dizziness
How is a foreign body in the ear diagnosed?
Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and any attempts you made to remove the object. They will examine your ear to detect any tears or signs of infection. They will also ask about recent activities, such as camping or travelling. Additionally, they may assess your hearing.
How is an Ear Foreign Bodies treated?
The treatment of an object in the ear usually involves removing the object. The ease or difficulty of this process depends on where the object is in the body. If the item cannot be removed at home and medical attention is required, treatment may include the following:
- A suction machine can remove the object from the nose or the ear.
- Retractors can also remove an object.
- Magnets can sometimes remove metal objects.
- Sometimes surgery is necessary if other removal methods do not work.
- Further processing may involve dealing with any damage caused by the object.
When to see a Doctor?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention:
- Severe ear pain
- Pus or blood draining from your ear
- Fever or chills
- Trouble hearing or ringing in your ears
- Questions or concerns about your condition or care
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How can one prevent a foreign body from entering the ear?
- Tilt your child's head to see if the object in the ear will naturally fall out.
- Gently remove visible objects with tweezers if easily accessible, avoiding pushing it deeper or using force.
- For live insects, kill them first with a warm baby or vegetable oil. Tilt and shake the head to remove the insect safely.
- If the eardrum is intact and there are no ear tubes, try flushing the ear with lukewarm water to remove the object.
- Seek immediate medical attention if the object cannot be easily removed, if parts remain, or if there's pain, hearing loss, or discomfort after removal.
