Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency care now if there is:
Trouble breathing, choking, blue or grey colouring, or collapse
A suspected or confirmed button battery in the nose
Two or more magnets, or magnets trapping nasal tissue
An object that may have moved into the airway
Heavy bleeding that does not stop with firm, gentle pressure
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Do not wait for symptoms after a suspected button-battery insertion.
Tissue damage may begin before pain or discharge develops.
Arrange prompt medical assessment if an object is visible or known to be inside the nose, even if it is not causing discomfort.
Unexplained one-sided, bad-smelling discharge or repeated bleeding also needs assessment.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Attend follow-up if advised.
Return for review if pain, swelling, fever, bleeding, blockage, or foul-smelling discharge continues or worsens, as this may indicate infection, tissue injury, or material still inside the nose.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Foreign body in the nose. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.