An earplug can become lodged in the ear canal, creating a foreign body obstruction. While earplugs are generally safe and designed for noise reduction or water protection, deep insertion or material failure can cause them or a fragment to get trapped. This situation requires careful attention to prevent injury.
How Earplugs Get Stuck
Earplugs typically become stuck due to excessive insertion depth or physical material breakdown. The ear canal is shaped like an “S” curve; the outer third is cartilage, and the inner two-thirds are bone. Pushing the plug past the first bend and into the sensitive bony section can cause it to become lodged.
Over-insertion often happens when too much force is used, or if the plug migrates deeper during sleep, especially for side sleepers. Once past the canal’s natural curve, the plug can sit against the inner, more narrow part of the canal, making removal difficult. Fragments, such as crumbling foam or detached flanges, are also common culprits that can become trapped.
Recognizing a Foreign Object in the Ear
A lodged earplug causes symptoms indicating obstruction or irritation. The most immediate sign is a sudden or muffled reduction in hearing, as the object partially or fully blocks the path of sound waves to the eardrum. This blockage also leads to a persistent feeling of fullness or pressure inside the ear.
Discomfort or sharp pain can occur if the object irritates the highly sensitive eardrum. Other common symptoms include a ringing or buzzing sound (tinnitus), and sometimes a clear, yellow, or foul-smelling discharge if inflammation or infection occurs.
Safe Removal and When to Seek Medical Attention
If an earplug fragment is clearly visible near the entrance, a gentle attempt can be made by tilting the head and lightly shaking it to dislodge the plug. Never insert objects like cotton swabs or tweezers into the ear canal to retrieve the plug. These actions frequently push the object deeper, potentially causing trauma, bleeding, or perforating the eardrum.
If the earplug is deep, causing pain, or if you are unsure of its location, immediate medical attention is necessary. A healthcare provider, such as an Urgent Care physician or an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist, has specialized tools like an otoscope for visualization and instruments for safe extraction. They may use micro-suction, specialized forceps, or gentle irrigation to remove the object without causing injury. Attempting deep self-removal carries the risk of serious complications, including canal laceration, infection, and permanent eardrum damage.
Preventing Deep Earplug Incidents
Proper technique significantly reduces the risk of an earplug getting stuck. When using foam plugs, roll them firmly into a thin cylinder before insertion. Insert the plug only about halfway into the canal, just past the first bend, and hold it until it expands to create a seal. The plug must remain accessible for easy finger removal.
Prevention Steps
- Select the correct size and type of earplug.
- Use reusable plugs that feature a cord or flange for easier grasping.
- Inspect earplugs for signs of wear, such as cracking or crumbling, before each use.
- Avoid excessive force during insertion.
- Consider sleeping on your back to prevent accidental migration.