How to Care for Your Child After Removal of an Object From the Ear

Sometimes, when a young child puts something in their ear, it can get stuck. An object left in the ear too long can cause itching, pain, bleeding, or an infection. The health care provider removed the object from your child's ear. Your child may have a small amount of bleeding from the ear or a little pain while they recover. Here's how to care for your child at home.

• Follow the health care provider's instructions about cleaning the outside of the ear. Don't put anything inside the ear canal (including a cotton swab).

• If your child has pain and your health care provider says it's OK, you can give acetaminophen (such as Tylenol^® or a store brand) or ibuprofen (such as Advil^®, Motrin^®, or a store brand). Follow the directions on the label for how much to give and how often. Don't give ibuprofen to babies under 6 months old.

• If the health care provider prescribed ear drops, use as directed.

• Your child has new or worse pain, bleeding, or drainage from the ear.

• The ear is swollen or red.

• Your child puts something in the ear again.

• You think your child isn't hearing normally.

What happens when an object is stuck in the ear? The object causes irritation and swelling in the ear canal. It may cut the inside of the ear and cause a little bleeding. It may also make it hard for the child to hear from that ear. Button cell batteries (round flat batteries used in watches, toys, remote controls, and other devices) can cause burns inside the ear. 

How can I prevent my child from putting something in their ear again? Keep small objects (such as batteries, magnets, beads, earrings, crayons, and small toy parts) out of the reach of children. Tell your child that they should never put objects in their nose, ears, or any other body opening because they can get stuck. Adults should watch kids when they're around small objects at home, daycare, and preschool.