A foreign object in the ear refers to any item or substance that becomes lodged in the ear canal. This can include small toys, beads, food particles, insects, or even cotton swab tips. Recognizing the signs that something is stuck in the ear is important, as timely identification can help prevent discomfort, potential infection, or more serious complications. While some objects may be harmless, others can cause irritation or damage to the sensitive structures within the ear.
Identifying the Symptoms
When an object becomes lodged in the ear canal, it can manifest through various symptoms, which depend on the object’s size, shape, and composition. A common sensation is a feeling of fullness or pressure, as if the ear is blocked or plugged. Ear pain, ranging from mild discomfort to sharp intensity, is frequently reported. This pain occurs due to the foreign body pressing against or irritating the delicate skin lining the ear canal and potentially the eardrum.
Hearing changes are also a common indicator. Muffled hearing or a noticeable decrease in hearing on the affected side can occur when the object partially or completely blocks sound waves from reaching the eardrum. In some cases, particularly with live insects, a buzzing or rustling noise may be heard. Discharge from the ear, which can be clear, yellow, or even bloody, may signal irritation or infection. A foul-smelling discharge often indicates the presence of an infection, which can develop if the object remains in the ear for an extended period.
Additional symptoms can include itching or irritation within the ear canal, especially with small particles or insects. Dizziness or balance issues may also arise, particularly if the object is deep within the ear or if it presses on the eardrum, affecting the middle ear’s function. In children, who frequently insert objects into their ears, symptoms might include irritability, persistent scratching or rubbing of the ear, or unexplained crying.
What to Do Next
If you suspect something is stuck in the ear, knowing the appropriate steps to take can prevent further injury. If the foreign object is visible and appears easy to grasp, gently try to remove it with blunt-ended tweezers. For children, tilting the head to the affected side and gently shaking it may help dislodge the object using gravity.
If an insect has entered the ear, tilting the head with the affected ear facing upward and pouring a few drops of warm (not hot) mineral, olive, or baby oil into the ear canal can help. The oil may kill the insect and allow it to float out. Do not use oil if there is a suspected hole in the eardrum.
It is important to avoid certain actions that could worsen the situation. Never poke or prod the object with cotton swabs, fingers, matchsticks, or other tools, as this can push the object deeper into the ear canal, making it harder to remove and potentially causing damage. Do not try to flush out objects with water if you suspect a perforated eardrum or if the object is a battery, food, or plant material. Water can cause food or plant items like beans or popcorn kernels to swell, making removal more difficult, and can cause button batteries to leak corrosive chemicals.
Seeking professional medical attention is often necessary, especially if the object cannot be easily removed or if symptoms persist. A doctor’s visit is recommended if there is pain, discharge from the ear, a feeling that something is still lodged after an attempt at removal, or changes in hearing. Prompt medical evaluation is particularly important if the object is a button battery, as these can cause severe burns and damage within hours. Additionally, if there is bleeding, severe pain, signs of infection like fever or swelling, or if the object is sharp, immediate medical help should be sought. A healthcare provider has specialized tools and expertise to safely remove objects and assess for damage or infection.