Object in the Nose: Care Instructions

Overview

An object in the nose can irritate the inside of the nose. It can cause infection or nosebleeds. You may get a stuffy nose, and thick fluid may come out of your nose.

Some objects cause more problems than others. Batteries can release chemicals that cause damage. Beans and other foods can expand and become hard to remove.

Your nose may be stuffy, slightly tender, and swollen after the object has been removed. These symptoms should get better in a day or two.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Breathe moist air from a humidifier, hot shower, or sink filled with hot water. Follow the directions for cleaning the humidifier.
• Take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve), as needed. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Do not take two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• If your doctor recommends it, take an oral decongestant or use a decongestant nasal spray to relieve stuffiness.
• Keep your head raised on an extra pillow when you sleep. This can decrease stuffiness.
• If you think you still have something in your nose, contact your doctor. Do not put cotton swabs or other items up your nose, because you may push the object farther into the nose.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have trouble breathing.
• You have a fever with a stiff neck or a severe headache.
• You have symptoms of an infection in the nose, such as
  • Increased yellow, green, or brown drainage.
  • Redness or swelling of your nose.
  • Bad-smelling drainage from the nose.
  • A fever.
• Your nose begins to bleed.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You think you still have something in your nose.
• You do not get better as expected.