Have you ever had something stuck in your ear? This is a common problem among toddlers and children, but it can also happen to adults too. The presence of a foreign object in your ear can cause discomfort, pain, and even mild hearing loss, so it’s important to address it as soon as possible.
In this article, we will discuss how you may be able to remove a foreign object from your ear. We recommend that when you do experience an object being stuck in your ear to speak to your local hearing care professional. They will be best placed to safely remove the object.
A few of the common items that can get trapped in your ear:
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- Small items – Such as button batteries, earrings, beads or small toys.
- Food – By tipping your head back to get those last few peanuts and your aim was not too good, those peanuts could end up in your ear.
- Hearing aid – Usually, the silicone tip of the hearing aid is what accidentally drops in the ear.
- Cotton tipped swab – This is probably the most common object to get stuck in your ear.
Removing Objects from Your Ear: What You Should Know
We recommend that if you do end up with an object stuck in your ear, to speak to a hearing care professional. In some cases, you may be able to safely remove the item with your fingers. However, your hearing healthcare professional will be able to ensure that there is no debris or damage to your ear canal.
Small items such as batteries or earrings
In case of a tiny button battery falling inside the ear, seek medical attention right away. It is possible for these batteries to leak harmful chemicals and cause severe damage to the ear. Avoid putting liquids in your ears. If you get an earring stuck in your ear, you should consult a hearing professional right away because part of it could perforate your eardrum.
If a piece of food is stuck in your ear
If you end up with a piece of food stuck in your ear, try to gently remove it with your fingers. In the event that this does not work, seek the assistance of a hearing professional as soon as possible. Pieces of food can decay and lead to infection.
If a piece of your hearing aid is stuck in your ear
It’s rare for hearing aid components to separate. However, removing the dome, or tip, when cleaning hearing aids increases the possibility that they will break later. Hearing professionals generally recommend that users avoid taking their hearing aids apart for cleaning at home.
If any part of your hearing aid appears to be missing after you remove it from your ear, get in touch with your hearing specialist right away. They will be able to determine if there is a part stuck in your ear, and take further steps if necessary.
If a cotton swab gets stuck in your ear
The American Academy of Otolaryngology recommends discontinuing the use of cotton-tipped swabs used for probing or cleaning your ears. However, if you have inserted one, it can become lodged inside your ear canal when it’s inserted too far. To remove it safely, we recommend speaking with your local hearing care professional.
Don’t use an object to try and remove the cotton from your ear. If the cotton gets pushed deeper into your ear canal, it could cause severe pain, permanent hearing loss and severe dizziness.
Need Help? Contact Us Today!
If you have something in your ear, the hearing care professionals at Anderson Audiology are ready to help. Call us today at 702-997-2964. Alternatively, click here to request an appointment online.