A 23-year-old man from Xian, Shanxi province, China, stunned doctors and the online community after discovering that a dice had been lodged in his nasal cavity for over two decades. Known simply as Xiaoma, he had suffered from persistent sneezing, nasal congestion, and a runny nose for nearly a month before seeking medical help.
Initially treating his symptoms with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Xiaoma turned to Xian Gaoxin Hospital when his condition didn’t improve. Medical professionals diagnosed him with allergic rhinitis but also identified a foreign object during a nasal endoscopy.
“We discovered a foreign object – a white lump coated with secretions. Upon extraction, it turned out to be a two-centimeter dice, partially corroded from its prolonged stay,” said Yang Rong, the otolaryngologist who performed the procedure.
The dice had adhered to surrounding tissues, posing significant risks during removal. Improper handling could have caused the object to fall into Xiaoma’s airway, potentially leading to suffocation. Fortunately, the procedure was successful, ending the dice’s 20-year presence in his nose.
Xiaoma recalled that the dice may have entered his nose when he was about three or four years old, though he remains uncertain how it happened.
This unusual case has sparked widespread discussion online, with many expressing disbelief at the duration and circumstances of the incident. It also serves as a reminder for parents to closely monitor children during playtime to prevent similar dangers.
“Foreign objects in the nasal cavity can cause severe complications. Any abnormal symptoms should be addressed immediately by medical professionals,” warned Dr. Yang.
