Families For Life | Foreign Objects in Noses, Ears, Eyes and Mouths-Babies

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Babies and toddlers learn about the world by exploring. They often pick up small objects and may put them in their mouths, noses or ears. While this is a normal part of development, it can sometimes lead to choking, injury or infection.

If you suspect your child has swallowed something or placed an object in their nose, ear or eye, seek medical attention promptly. Avoid trying to remove the item yourself, as this may push it deeper or cause further harm.

Common Household Hazards

Keep these items out of your child's reach:

  • Coins and small batteries

  • Beads, buttons, marbles and pen caps

  • Jewellery and small toy parts

  • Needles, pins and safety pins

  • Nuts, popcorn, seeds and other small foods

  • Polystyrene beads from bean bags or soft toys

  • Button batteries are especially dangerous because they can cause serious internal injuries if swallowed.

Simple Ways to Prevent Accidents

A few safety habits can help reduce risks:

  • Supervise your baby or toddler during meals.

  • Encourage children to sit while eating instead of walking, running or playing with food.

  • Cut food into small pieces and remove bones from fish and meat.

  • Avoid giving popcorn, nuts and other hard, round foods to young children.

  • Check floors, sofas and low tables regularly for small objects that may have fallen.

  • Teach older siblings not to place objects in a baby's ears, nose or mouth.

  • Store craft materials such as beads and glitter out of reach.

  • A quick daily sweep of play areas can help keep your baby safe.

Signs Something May Be Stuck

In the Nose

Your child may:

  • Have a blocked or runny nostril on one side

  • Bleed from the nose

  • Develop a foul-smelling discharge

  • Seem uncomfortable or keep touching the nose

In the Ear

  • Your child may:

  • Pull or rub the ear

  • Cry more than usual

  • Have redness or discharge from the ear

  • Show signs of reduced hearing

In the Eye

Your child may:

  • Rub the eye frequently

  • Have redness or excessive tearing

  • Blink often

  • Be sensitive to bright light

When to Seek Help

Contact a doctor immediately if your child has difficulty breathing, is choking, or you think they have swallowed a battery, magnet or other dangerous object. For objects stuck in the nose, ear or eye, it is safest to let a healthcare professional remove them.

A little prevention goes a long way. By keeping small objects out of reach and supervising your child closely, you can help your baby explore safely while reducing the risk of accidents.