Foreign body removal in children is a common procedure, as young children are naturally curious and often put small objects into their ears, nose or mouth. Common items that may become lodged include food, toys, beads, coins or even small household objects. Depending on where the foreign body is located and the type of object, symptoms can vary, ranging from pain, discomfort or difficulty breathing to visible signs like nasal discharge or coughing. If a foreign body is suspected, it's important to seek prompt medical attention. Attempting to remove the object at home without proper tools or expertise can cause further injury or push the object deeper.
Pediatricians or emergency medical professionals are trained to safely remove foreign bodies from children. Removal methods may include using specialized instruments, irrigation or suction, depending on the object and its location. In some cases, if the object is deeply embedded or difficult to reach, a referral to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist may be necessary. Prevention is key, and parents can reduce the risk by supervising young children, keeping small objects out of reach, and teaching them about the dangers of putting objects in their mouths, noses or ears. With appropriate care, most foreign body incidents are resolved without long-term issues.