Ear foreign body
GGC - Primary Care
Warning
Background: Foreign bodies within the ear canal can be difficult to remove without specialist equipment, particularly if impacted in the medial ear canal.
Organic foreign bodies (e.g. wool, peas) can cause significant inflammation in the ear canal. Delayed removal is therefore more challenging. Inorganic foreign bodies (e.g. silicone ear buds) do not cause inflammation and so can be managed in the outpatient clinic.
Referral guidance:
If concern regarding button battery, Emergency referral to ENT should be made for immediate review
If concern regarding organic foreign body, Emergency referral to ENT for review within 24-48 hours
Inorganic foreign bodies should be referred to ENT on a routine basis