Object in the ear

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Object in the ear

Objects (including insects) in the ear may cause symptoms of discomfort. It is reasonable to try to remove the object. If the object cannot be removed, it may fall out on its own over the next 24 hours.

The longer an object is left in the ear, the more difficult it is to remove. Also, infection can result from prolonged presence of the object. If an object remains in the ear longer than 24 hours, a visit to a health professional is needed.

Objects that are placed into the ear rarely cause significant damage. But objects that are forcefully inserted into the ear can penetrate the eardrum or tear the ear canal. The ears are self-cleaning, so cotton swabs or other cleaning devices are not needed or recommended. When this occurs, symptoms may include hearing loss, pain, dizziness, and bleeding. To prevent infection and permanent hearing loss, a visit to a health professional is needed.

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Author	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Donald R. Mintz, MD - Otolaryngology
Last Updated	February 13, 2008

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Last updated:	February 13, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, Donald R. Mintz, MD - Otolaryngology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

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