There’s a Bug in My Ear! What Should I Do?
Carrie Madormo, RN, MPH, is a freelance health writer with over a decade of experience working as a registered nurse in a variety of clinical settings.
Learn about our editorial processPublished on March 14, 2022Medically reviewedVerywell Health articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more.byJohn Carew, MD Medically reviewed byJohn Carew, MDJohn Carew, MD, is board-certified in otolaryngology and is an adjunct assistant professor at New York University Medical Center.
Learn about our Medical Review BoardTable of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsIt’s a disturbing thought but it is possible for bugs to fly or crawl into our ears and then get stuck there. Often the insect dies after it enters the ear but it could stay alive and try to make its way back out.
It’s helpful to remember that a bug in your ear is usually not dangerous to your health, though it can be quite uncomfortable. You are more likely to experience a bug in your ear when spending time outdoors or if there are bugs living in your home. This may occur while you are sleeping.
This article will provide step-by-step instructions for removing a bug from your ear. It will also explain when to call your healthcare provider and what the possible complications are.
What Is Causing Your Ear Pain?Signs and Symptoms
If you have a bug in your ear, you will likely begin to experience symptoms right away. The tissues and nerves in the ear are very sensitive, so it can feel bothersome when there is something in your ear.
Possible signs and symptoms of a bug in your ear include:
What Your Ear Pain Means and What You Should Do About ItRemoval
When attempting to remove an insect from your ear, it is helpful to stay as still and as calm as you can. It is occasionally possible to remove the insect at home without complications.
First, remember to never use a cotton swab or any tool that you press into your ear. This will only push the insect further into the ear canal and could cause more damage.
To remove a bug from your ear, try these steps:
How to Get Something Out of Your EarWhen to Get Medical Help
Call your healthcare provider if you have not been able to remove the insect from your ear completely with home remedies. Sometimes it is possible to remove part of the insect but not the entire thing. Your provider will help you to determine if you need to be seen in the clinic.
It’s also important to call your healthcare provider if you begin experiencing new symptoms such as ear pain, bloody drainage, a foul smell coming from the ear, or a fever.
How to Relieve Ear PainComplications
In most cases, a bug entering your ear is harmless. However, if a bug enters your ear and is not removed, an infection could occur. Symptoms of an ear infection include ear pain and drainage.
A bug in your ear could also lead to a ruptured eardrum, a part of the ear also known as your tympanic membrane. This could occur if the bug bites or scratches the eardrum. This is extremely rare, but symptoms of a ruptured eardrum include pain and bloody discharge coming from the ear. You may notice that you are having trouble hearing out of that ear as well.
Prevention
There is no way to guarantee that a bug will never fly into your ear. The best prevention strategy is to avoid insects whenever you can. Try sleeping with your windows closed to prevent bugs from flying into the bedroom. Keep your room clean to discourage insects from entering.
When camping or spending time outdoors, wear bug repellant and consider wearing a hat that covers your ears. When sleeping outdoors, seal your tent shut to prevent insects from coming in.
The 8 Best Bug Sprays of 2022Summary
A bug in your ear can be very uncomfortable but usually does not lead to any serious complications. Possible symptoms include redness, itching, swelling, drainage, and pain. You may also notice a sensation of movement inside the ear. To remove a bug from your ear, try tilting your head to the side and shaking it gently. Pouring a small amount of vegetable oil or warm water into your ear may also help. If you are unable to remove it at home, call your healthcare provider.
A Word From Verywell
Your skin may be crawling just thinking about the possibility of a bug inside your ear. As uncomfortable as it is, a bug in your ear is usually harmless. Do your best to stay calm as you attempt to remove it. If you are not sure if you’ve removed the entire insect, don’t hesitate to see your healthcare provider.
Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life.
You're in!Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up.
There was an error. Please try again.
