How would i know if something is lodged into my child’s nose ?
Children are fond of putting all kinds of small things including beads and small toys into their noses. They may not even know something is stuck.
However you may realize that one part of your child’s nose has a smelly discharge. If a cold is responsible, both sides of the nose will probably run. The child may cry because of pain or discomfort or may even get a nosebleed.
What should i do if something is stuck in my child’s nose ?
You need to stay calm first of all. Assure the child that everything is going to be fine. If the object is close to the surface and the child can sit, you can use tweezers.
However the biggest risk is pushing the object deep inside while trying to take it out . If it is a complex situation, leave it to the doctor. They have tiny forceps and other instruments and methods.
You need to take the child to the doctor right away if you cant get the object out. Some objects are harder to take out the longer you wait. Tissue damage may occur the longer the item is lodged in the child’s nose.
How will the doctor remove it ?
There are different techniques and tools that the doctor can use to remove a lodged object from a child’s nose. Some include :
- the doctor will block the open nostril and ask the child to blow his nose. If the child cant, the doctor cover the open nostril and ask you to cover your child’s mouth with yours and give a short, quick breath to dislodge the object.
- use a magnet to remove a metal item
Your child may be sedated if the procedure is complex. An otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor) may even be needed.
Your doctor will examine your child’s nose to make sure nothing else is in there. The doctor may prescribe nose drops to prevent any infection.
NOTE
You can prevent this from happening by making sure all toys are age appropriate . You also need to supervise small children closely. Keep coins and other small items out of reach of children. You have to teach your children that is a bad idea to put any item in his nose.
Content Sources
Foreign object in the nose. Emedicine. http://www.emedicinehealth.com/foreign_body_nose/article_em.htm. Accessed February 22, 2017
Foreign body in the nose. Haelthline. http://www.healthline.com/health/foreign-body-in-the-nose. Accessed February 22, 2017