Symptoms of a foreign body in the ear
The occurrence of foreign bodies in the ears is a problem that can be encountered at any age, although it most often affects preschool children. These are various objects that have been inadvertently or intentionally introduced into the ear canal. It can be a piece of cotton wool, a sponge, beads, but also something potentially dangerous like sharp objects. Insects can also become unwanted “guests” in our ears, bringing with them pain and discomfort. In either case, it is important to react quickly, as symptoms can range from a feeling of a plugged ear to pain to reduced hearing ability and bleeding. In the case of children who cannot yet express what hurts them, it is important to pay attention to their behavior – crying, scratching at the ear, or obvious discomfort.
Should I try to remove the foreign body from the ear myself?
The action in the case of a clogged ear depends on the structure of the foreign body, and here you can try it with tweezers. On the other hand, in the case of live insects, it is a good idea to pour oil or warm water over the ear to help them escape. It is important not to attempt to flush the ear yourself if you are unsure of the type of foreign body or its location.
Remember that if the foreign body is deeply embedded, you should not attempt to remove it yourself. In such cases, it is best to consult a doctor as soon as possible, who has the right tools and experience to safely remove the object. Our health is paramount, and improperly performed attempts to remove a foreign body from the ear can lead to serious complications. Therefore, when in doubt, always seek medical help
How does a doctor remove a foreign body from the ear?
Removal of a foreign body from the ear by a doctor is a precise and usually painless procedure, performed in an outpatient setting. The process begins with a thorough interview, during which the doctor establishes the circumstances under which the foreign body lodged and what symptoms accompany the patient. Then, using an otoscope, the doctor carefully assesses the situation in the ear canal. Based on this information and direct examination, the doctor selects the safest and most effective method of removing the foreign body, which may include the use of specialized tools. If damage to the eardrum is suspected, lavage should not be used. On the other hand, in some more complicated cases, it may be necessary to use short-term anesthesia to ensure patient comfort and safety of the procedure.
Are there complications from a foreign body in the ear?
Although most cases end in full recovery, there is a risk of complications, especially with damage to the internal structures of the ear. To avoid the problem of a foreign body in the ear, it’s a good idea to keep small objects out of children’s reach and be careful when cleaning ears. It is also important not to use cotton swabs to plug ears, a common myth intended to protect against ear infections.
Requests
A foreign body in the ear may seem like a harmless problem, but it requires appropriate and prompt action. Knowing how to handle such a situation can save us from unnecessary pain and potential complications.
