How To Remove A Foreign Object From The Ear

Step 1: Do not remove stuck or wedged objects

If the person has an object wedged in their ear, do not attempt to remove it by digging or poking at it as you can cause serious damage or push the object deeper into the ear. Reassure the person and then seek medical advice.

Step 2: Removing trapped insect

If the problem is caused by an insect in the ear, which is still moving around, you can try flushing it out.

Step 3: Tilt the head

Place a towel or cloth around their neck and whilst supporting their head, tilt it to the side keeping the ear containing the insect uppermost.

Step 4: Flush out the ear

Using cool boiled water, carefully flush out the ear so the insect floats out. If this fails to eject the insect, seek medical advice.