FOREIGN OBJECT IN THE NOSE

If a foreign object becomes lodged in your nose:

1. Don't probe at the object with a cotton swab or other tool.

2. Don't try to inhale the object by forcefully breathing in. Instead, breathe through your mouth until the object is removed.

3. Blow your nose gently to try to free the object, but don't blow hard or repeatedly. If only one nostril is affected, close the opposite nostril by applying gentle pressure and then blow out gently through the affected nostril.

4. If the object is visible and you can easily grasp it with tweezers, gently remove it. Don't try to remove an object that isn't visible or easily grasped.

5. Call for emergency medical assistance or go to your local emergency room if these methods fail.

BACK

The City of Ashland Division of Fire does not present this information as a substitute for professional medical advice, emergency treatment or formal first-aid training. Do not use this information to diagnose or develop a treatment plan for a health problem or disease without consulting a qualified health care provider. If ever you're in a life-threatening or emergency medical situation, seek medical assistance immediately.