Foreign Object in the Ear Canal

What is a Foreign Object in the Ear?

A foreign object in the ear canal refers to any material or item that has unintentionally entered the ear and is not meant to be there. This can happen to adults or children and may include anything from small insects to beads, cotton tips, or even hardened earwax that behaves like a foreign body.

These objects can lead to discomfort, pain, infection, or hearing issues — and should be removed safely and professionally to avoid damage to the delicate structures of the ear.

Types of Foreign Objects in the Ear

Inorganic Objects – Small toys, beads, rubber parts, or bits of earplugs or hearing aid domes.
Organic Objects – Food particles, seeds, or insects (especially in children or during sleep outdoors).
Medical Debris – Cotton tips, broken pieces of earplugs, or wax-removal tools left inside.
Impacted Earwax – While naturally occurring, when wax hardens or accumulates in large amounts, it can behave like a foreign object, causing similar symptoms and requiring safe removal.

Symptoms of Foreign Objects in the Ear

Sensation of blockage or fullness
Ear pain or discomfort
Muffled hearing or hearing loss
Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing sounds)
Itching or irritation in the ear canal
Drainage or unpleasant odour (if infection occurs)
Dizziness or balance issues (in severe cases)

Causes of Foreign Objects in the Ear

Accidental insertion (e.g., using cotton buds or earplugs)
Children inserting small items into the ear out of curiosity
Sleeping outdoors or near insects
Use of in-ear devices (earbuds, hearing aids)
Build-up of earwax that becomes dry, hard, and obstructive

How Earwax May Cause This?

While earwax is a natural protective substance, in some cases it can harden and act as a foreign object within the canal. Impacted wax can:

✔ Obstruct the ear canal, mimicking the presence of a foreign body
✔ Trap actual foreign objects like dust or debris
✔ Interfere with hearing aid domes, causing parts to get lodged
✔ Cause itching, which may lead to insertion of objects in an attempt to scratch or clean
✔ Lead to pain, infection, or discomfort if left untreated

The presence of hardened wax can also make it difficult to detect other objects, which is why professional inspection and removal are often necessary.

How Can Our Micro-Suction Earwax Removal Service Help?

At Swan Earwax Removal, we specialise in the safe, precise, and gentle removal of foreign objects from the ear canal — especially impacted wax and small lodged materials. Using micro-suction technology, we are able to:

✔ Gently extract wax or debris without water irrigation
✔ Minimise discomfort using a controlled, dry method
✔ Identify and remove small objects lodged in or around wax
✔ Avoid pushing objects deeper (a risk with cotton buds or syringing)
✔ Help you restore comfort, hearing, and peace of mind

If you suspect there’s something in your ear — or if your ear feels blocked, itchy, or uncomfortable — it’s important not to try removing it yourself. Our trained professionals can assist with safe, same-day ear cleaning using micro-suction, a method trusted by hearing care professionals and GPs alike.

Book your appointment with us today and let us help you remove the cause — quickly, safely, and effectively.