How to remove an object stuck in your toddler’s nose
You’d be surprised just how many objects are able to fit in a child’s nose. We share advice from a Clicks nursing sister to help you safely navigate this tricky - but common - situation.
Did you know that paediatricians have extracted everything from marbles to Lego pieces, peas, beads and popcorn kernels from toddlers’ noses?
If it’s small enough to fit up a nostril, it’s likely interesting enough to pique the curiosity of a two-year-old - and send any parent into a panic. But, hold tight, here’s what you can do if it happens to your little one.
How do you know if your toddler has something stuck up their nose?
Your little one might come to you to inform you of their incredible engineering feat, or you may notice they have discharge from one nostril only. The other telltale sign? You’ll smell it - and it’ll likely come from the side where the offending object has been shoved.
The mother’s kiss
There are Youtube tutorials aplenty on this method of removing unwanted objects from toddler nasal passages. Here’s how it works: place your mouth over the child’s mouth, hold the unblocked nostril firmly closed with one finger and blow gently into the child’s mouth. If it doesn’t work, do not repeat, as your child is likely to become less cooperative the more you try.
Blowing it out
“If your young child knows how to blow their nose, you may be able to get them to successfully blow out the offending item. Tell them to keep their mouth closed, now hold a tissue under their nose and gently block the empty nostril - now tell them to blow. You might have luck in dislodging the object, if not, you need to head to your doctor’s office or ER to have it professionally removed”, says Clicks Sister Jane Mongwe.
What not to do
Unless you can easily see the item and have a pair of flat - not sharp -tweezers to remove the offending pea or bead, do not attempt to solve the problem yourself. A trapped foreign object has the potential to be a choking hazard and you could unintentionally push the item further into the child’s sinuses.
How to prevent future incidents
Unfortunately, inserting inappropriate foodstuffs or items up nasal passages can become a habit – especially for younger children. Keep an eye on them at meal times and remove small toys and items that could be a hazard – rather be safe than sorry.
IMAGE CREDIT: shutterstock.com
