Helping someone with an object in the ear or nose:
- Call 999 or 112.
- Don’t try to remove the object.
- If it’s an insect, try gently flooding the ear.
Children and babies often push foreign objects into their nose or ears. If a foreign object becomes lodged in the ear, like cotton wool or insects, this can cause temporary deafness. If a foreign object becomes lodged in the nose, like ‘button’ batteries, it can cause bleeding or burns.
What to do
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If you think the baby or child has an object in the ear or nose, then call 999 or 112 for emergency help straight away.
- Do not try to remove the foreign object yourself as you might push the object in further.
- Keep the casualty calm.
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If there’s an insect inside the ear, you can support the casualty’s 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.
Head injuries in babies and children
When your baby starts to crawl, they may bump their head or fall. Find out what to look for and what to do for minor and severe head injuries in babies and children.
