foreign body in the nose


foreign body in the nose

Presence of material in the nasal cavity that was either inhaled or accidentally placed there. A child may place a foreign object in his or her own or another child's nose.

Symptoms

Coughing or watery or purulent discharge; occasionally pain and obstruction of nose. The foreign body may cause a nasal obstruction and infection, often with a foul-smelling discharge. If the foreign body is very small, symptoms may be absent.

Treatment

Vigorous nose blowing should be discouraged because it may spread infection to the various cavities and sinuses about the nose or to the middle ear. The foreign body should be removed by a health care professional.

See also: nose