Children and babies often push foreign objects into their nose or ears. This can cause all sort of problems.
Foreign object in child's nose or ear
Dr Lynn Thomas, OStJ, BSc, MB.BS, MA, FRCPClinically reviewed: 28/04/2025
Children and babies often push foreign objects into their nose or ears, which can cause a number of problems. Find out what to look for and how to perform first aid.
What to do
- 1
If you think the baby or child has an object in the ear or nose, attend your nearest emergency department or minor injuries unit.
Do not try to remove the foreign object yourself as you might push the object in further.
Keep them calm.
- 2
If there’s an insect inside the ear, you can support their head with the affected ear facing upwards, and gently flood the ear with tepid water. This should allow the insect to float out.
If this flooding does not remove the insect, seek medical advice.
