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- What Are Foreign Bodies?
- How Are Foreign Bodies Removed?
- Symptoms Of Foreign Bodies
- What Causes Foreign Bodies?
- Why Is Foreign Body Removal Important?
- How Can I Promote Healing After Foreign Bodies Are Removed?
- Who To Trust With Treatment
- When In Doubt
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Read MoreForeign body removal is a common yet important medical procedure designed to safely take out objects that have entered the body where they shouldn’t be. At InMotion Health, we offer foreign body removal services through our convenient in-home urgent care visits, so you can receive treatment without a stressful trip to the emergency room.
What Are Foreign Bodies?
Foreign bodies are objects that become lodged in the body and require removal because they cannot pass or heal on their own. Common foreign bodies include:
- Wood
- Plant material
- Food
- Metal objects
- Beads
- Small toys
They can be located in the skin, soft tissues, eyes, ears, digestive tract, or gastrointestinal tract. Some deeper foreign bodies may require imaging, such as an X-ray or a CT scan (computed tomography), for an accurate diagnosis.
How Are Foreign Bodies Removed?
The method of foreign body removal depends on the location, size, and material of the object. For superficial skin injuries, wound exploration under local anesthesia or local anesthetic allows safe extraction while minimizing pain. Soft tissue foreign bodies from penetrating injury or traumatic lacerations are typically treated with sterile saline irrigation to prevent infection before closure. Objects in the ear may be removed using specialized tools under direct visualization, while eye foreign bodies require gentle techniques to avoid scratching the cornea.
Symptoms of Foreign Bodies
The symptoms vary by location but can include:
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Bleeding
- Visible objects in the wound
Eye foreign bodies may cause tearing, blurred vision, or light sensitivity; ear foreign bodies may cause hearing loss, ringing, or discharge. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these warning signs.
What Causes Foreign Bodies?
Foreign bodies can result from:
- Accidental injuries
- Penetrating injury
- Workplace accidents involving metal objects
- Outdoor activities that cause wood splinters
Children are more prone to ear, nose, and eye foreign bodies due to curiosity, while adults may encounter soft tissue foreign bodies through work or hobbies.
Why Is Foreign Body Removal Important?
Leaving a retained foreign body in place can increase the risk of infection, other complications, and tissue damage. Organic foreign bodies are particularly prone to causing further damage and infections if not addressed promptly. Timely medical care helps prevent infections, restores function, and prevents symptoms from worsening.
How Can I Promote Healing After Foreign Bodies Are Removed?
After your foreign body removal procedure, keep the area clean, rinse with sterile saline if instructed, and apply prophylactic antibiotics if prescribed. Watch for signs of infection, and request follow-up visits if these occur. Avoid scratching or rubbing the treated area and protect it from further damage during the healing process.
Who to Trust with Treatment
At InMotion Health, our providers are fully equipped to safely remove a foreign body. Our team offers comprehensive care in your home, with access to advanced tools and sterile techniques to ensure safe removal and minimal discomfort. If you suspect a foreign object is lodged in your skin, eye, or ear, contact InMotion Health for fast, expert urgent care that comes to you.
When in Doubt
If you or someone else is experiencing severe or life-threatening symptoms and you’re unsure whether it’s an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room. It’s always safer to seek immediate care rather than delay treatment.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is intended to support your care by providing general education and information, but it should not replace guidance from a licensed medical professional. We recommend consulting with one of our trained clinicians—either virtually or through our in-home services—for an accurate evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Meet Your In-Home Expert
Carly Oliveri, PA-C
Lead Provider & Founder
Carly Oliveri is a board-certified Physician Assistant with extensive experience in emergency medicine and urgent care. She earned her undergraduate degree in Health Science from the University of Florida and completed her Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies at the Pace University Lenox Hill Hospital Physician Assistant Program in Manhattan, New York.
Absolutely amazing service! InMotion Health made getting care so easy and convenient. The provider was professional, compassionate, and thorough. Highly recommend for anyone looking for top-notch care at home or virtually!
- Easy and Convenient
I was visiting from out of town and needed urgent care — InMotion Health was amazing! The provider came right to my hotel, handled everything on the spot, and made the process so easy. Professional, friendly, and convenient. Highly recommend for travelers!
- Professional, friendly, and convenient
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