- Content version
- 1.0
- Last scientific review
- مايو 2026
Why do children put things in their noses and ears?
Out of curiosity and play, especially between ages 2 and 5. Common objects include beads, small toys, seeds, food, and pieces of eraser or paper.
Most cases can be easily treated by a doctor, but some objects are dangerous and need immediate intervention.
Button batteries and magnets: an emergency
Small round watch and toy batteries can cause burns and damage to the nose or ear within just a few hours. Magnet pieces on either side of the nasal septum can cause a hole in it.
If you suspect your child has put a battery or magnet in their nose or ear, or swallowed one, go to the emergency room immediately.
Signs of a foreign body in the nose
- Discharge from one side of the nose, often foul-smelling
- One-sided obstruction
- Nosebleed
- A bad odor from the child
Signs of a foreign body in the ear
- Pain or a feeling of blockage
- Reduced hearing
- Discharge from the ear
- Persistent itching or discomfort in the ear
- A sensation of movement or buzzing if it's an insect
Don't
- Don't try to remove the object with tweezers, cotton swabs, or pins, as you may push it further in or injure the child.
- Don't put water in the ear if the object is food, a seed, or a battery.
- Don't keep trying repeatedly if the child is crying or resisting.
What can I do?
In the nose
- Keep the child calm, and ask them to breathe through their mouth.
- If the child is old enough and cooperative, close the healthy nostril and ask them to blow forcefully through the nose.
- If the object doesn't come out, see a doctor.
An insect in the ear
- Tilt the child's head with the affected ear facing down.
- Don't insert any instrument into the ear.
- See a doctor to remove it.
How does the doctor treat it?
The doctor uses special instruments and appropriate lighting to safely remove the object. Some children may need brief general anesthesia if the object is deep or the child is uncooperative.
How do I protect my child?
- Keep beads and small toys away from children under 3 years old.
- Keep small batteries out of children's reach, and make sure battery compartments in toys and remote controls are securely closed.
- Dispose of used batteries safely.
- Watch for toys containing small magnetic pieces.
- Supervise children while playing.
- Teach your child not to put things in their nose, ears, or mouth.
Call 997 or go to the emergency room immediately if:
- The object is a battery or magnet
- Difficulty breathing, severe coughing, or choking appears
- The child swallowed the object or you suspect they did
- Severe bleeding or severe pain occurs
See a doctor the same day if:
- You see the object in the nose or ear and it doesn't come out easily
- The object is food or a seed, as these swell over time
- You notice discharge or a bad odor from one side
Remember
- Batteries and magnets are a medical emergency.
- Foul-smelling discharge from one side of a child's nose may indicate a foreign body.
- Don't try to remove the object with tools.
- Prevention is the most important step.
This information is for health awareness and education, and does not replace a doctor's consultation or direct medical assessment.
Prepared by: Saudi Society of Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery · Version 1.0 · Last reviewed: May 2026 · saudiorl.com
