When a fish bone is accidentally swallowed, it can be a startling experience. While many instances are harmless and the bone passes through the digestive system without issue, there are situations where it can become lodged or cause injury.
Immediate Sensations and What to Do
Swallowing a fish bone often causes a distinct scratching sensation or a feeling of something being stuck in the throat. This discomfort might be felt in the tonsils, the base of the tongue, or deeper in the throat near the esophagus. A pricking pain or persistent tickle can lead to a cough reflex. This sensation can persist even after the bone has moved, as it might have caused a minor scratch.
To help dislodge a fish bone, gentle actions can be attempted at home. Coughing forcefully can sometimes help move a bone loosely caught in the upper throat. Drinking water, especially in small sips, may also aid in washing the bone down. Eating soft, bulky foods like a piece of bread, a mashed banana, or boiled rice can sometimes encapsulate the bone and help it pass more easily.
Avoid aggressive methods that could worsen the situation. Forcing fingers down the throat to induce vomiting or trying to manually extract the bone can push it deeper or cause further injury to the delicate tissues of the throat and esophagus. Using tools or other objects to try and dislodge the bone is not recommended due to the risk of internal damage.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Despite many swallowed fish bones passing without incident, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. If you experience severe or worsening pain in your throat or chest, this could indicate the bone has become firmly lodged or caused damage. Difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, or a sensation of choking are serious signs that require prompt evaluation, as these symptoms suggest the bone might be obstructing the airway.
Other concerning signs include drooling, an inability to swallow saliva or food, or intense discomfort when attempting to swallow. These indicate a potential blockage or injury to the esophagus. The development of a fever, chills, or swelling in the neck area could point towards an infection. Any of these symptoms should prompt a visit to an emergency room or urgent care facility.
Medical professionals, such as ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists, are equipped to assess the situation. They may use specialized tools like an endoscope to visualize the throat and esophagus and safely remove the bone if it is present. Prompt medical intervention can prevent more serious complications from developing.
Potential Medical Complications
A swallowed fish bone can lead to serious medical complications if it becomes lodged or causes injury. One such complication is perforation, where the sharp bone creates a hole in the wall of the esophagus, stomach, or intestine. This is a serious condition that can lead to leakage of digestive contents into surrounding body cavities, potentially causing severe inflammation or infection. The risk of perforation is higher when the bone is large or unusually sharp.
Another potential issue is the development of an infection, such as an abscess. If the bone punctures the tissue, bacteria can enter the wound, leading to a localized collection of pus. An abscess requires medical treatment, often involving antibiotics and sometimes drainage.
In rare instances, a fish bone can cause an obstruction of the digestive tract, preventing food and fluids from passing normally. This is more likely if the bone is large or if there is pre-existing narrowing of the digestive tract. Even more rarely, a bone might migrate from the digestive tract into surrounding tissues or organs, such as the neck, chest, or even the thyroid gland. Such migration can lead to serious internal injuries and infections, necessitating complex medical procedures to locate and remove the foreign object.