Paper towels are not food, and the human body is not equipped to process this material. While generally not considered toxic, they offer zero nutritional value and can pose serious physical risks to the digestive system. Ingesting this non-food item introduces a foreign substance that the body cannot break down or absorb. Understanding the potential physical consequences is important.
Composition and Digestibility
Paper towels are primarily composed of cellulose fibers, which are derived from wood pulp or recycled paper. Cellulose is a complex carbohydrate, also known as insoluble dietary fiber, that forms the structural component of plant cell walls. Humans lack the necessary digestive enzyme, cellulase, required to break down the chemical bonds in cellulose into usable glucose molecules. Because the digestive tract cannot chemically process these fibers, the material passes through the system virtually intact. Paper towels therefore provide no calories, vitamins, or minerals, acting essentially as inert bulk.
Acute Mechanical Hazards
The most immediate danger of eating a paper towel is the risk of it becoming physically lodged in the body. If swallowed in a large, wadded-up piece, it can cause a blockage in the upper digestive tract, specifically the esophagus. This is a severe emergency that may prevent breathing or swallowing, requiring immediate medical intervention. Once past the esophagus, a large mass of material can cause a gastrointestinal obstruction further down the tract. This blockage can occur in the stomach or, more dangerously, the small or large intestine. An intestinal obstruction is a life-threatening condition that stops the movement of food and waste, potentially leading to tissue death or perforation of the bowel wall.
Gastrointestinal Transit and Symptoms
When a small piece of paper towel is ingested, it travels through the intestines as undigested fiber. The transit time through the gastrointestinal tract generally ranges from 24 to 72 hours. During this period, the material may cause common but less severe digestive symptoms. The added bulk from the indigestible fibers can lead to feelings of fullness, mild abdominal discomfort, and increased gas production. Some individuals may experience bloating or cramping as their system attempts to move the mass through the colon.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While small, shredded pieces often pass without incident, certain symptoms indicate a medical emergency. Seek immediate medical care if you experience persistent vomiting, especially if the vomit contains blood or bile. Severe, worsening abdominal pain or tenderness can signal a dangerous obstruction requiring urgent attention. Other signs of a serious problem include the inability to pass gas or stool for a prolonged period following ingestion, or the development of a fever. If the material was swallowed by a child and they are drooling, refusing to eat, or having difficulty breathing, it suggests the object is lodged in the upper airway or esophagus.