Insects in the Ear
Insects may fly into the ear and become trapped when a child is playing
outdoors. Sometimes, the insect dies after entering the ear; other times,
it may remain alive and attempt to work its way back out of the ear. In
either case, the insect can cause fear and discomfort for a child and the
insect should be removed immediately.
First-aid for insects in the ear:
- Calm your child and let him/her know you can help.
- Do not attempt to remove the insect by poking it with a cotton swab
or similar probe. This may push the insect farther into the ear or cause
damage to the middle ear and eardrum.
- Tilt your child's head to the side and gently shake (do not hit) it.
- If your child has tubes in his/her ears or has a history of ear
problems call your child's physician immediately for further treatment
recommendations.
- If your child does not have tubes or ear problems:
- If you think the insect is still alive and it does not come out
with gentle head shaking, pour a small amount of vegetable or baby oil
into the ear canal. This will usually suffocate the insect.
- If you think the insect is dead and it does not come out with
gentle head shaking, pour a small amount of warm water into the ear
canal to flush it out.
When should I call my child's physician?
Specific treatment for insects in the ear that require more than minor
treatment at home will be determined by your child's physician. In
general, call your child's physician:
- to have the insect removed if it does not come out after shaking or
irrigation. Insects are able to cause damage to the inside of the ear by
stinging or scratching the eardrum.
- if you are able to remove only parts or pieces of the insect.
- if your child develops signs of infection such as a fever or foul
smell or drainage from the ear.
Click here to view the
Online Resources page of this Web. |
