Swallowed Chicken Bone: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Suspected ingestion of a chicken bone?

Hello, doctor.
On the night of December 31st last year, which was three days ago, I bought a bucket of fried chicken to eat.
While I was eating a piece with my father and chatting, I think I might have swallowed a chicken bone (not entirely sure).
Over the past few days, my swallowing has been normal, I don't feel any foreign body sensation in my throat, and there is no abdominal pain.
However, I do cough a little sometimes, but I'm not sure if it's due to the chicken bone or the cold weather.
Do I need to get an X-ray or undergo an endoscopy?

Ken, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/03

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, sir.
There was no obstruction at the time; just observe.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2018/01/03

More Info

Swallowing a chicken bone can be a concerning experience, and it's understandable to have questions about when to seek medical attention. Based on your description, it seems that you have not experienced any significant symptoms that would typically warrant immediate concern. However, let's break down the situation and provide guidance on what to do next.

First and foremost, if you have swallowed a chicken bone and are currently not experiencing any severe symptoms—such as intense pain, difficulty swallowing, persistent coughing, or signs of gastrointestinal distress (like vomiting or severe abdominal pain)—it is generally a good sign. The fact that you are able to eat normally and do not feel any foreign body sensation in your throat is reassuring.
However, there are certain symptoms that should prompt you to seek medical attention:
1. Severe Pain: If you develop sharp or severe pain in your throat, chest, or abdomen, this could indicate that the bone is lodged somewhere in your digestive tract.

2. Difficulty Swallowing: If you find it increasingly difficult to swallow food or liquids, this may suggest that the bone is causing an obstruction.

3. Persistent Coughing: While occasional coughing can be due to various reasons, if it becomes persistent and is accompanied by other symptoms, it may warrant further investigation.

4. Vomiting: If you start to vomit, especially if it is accompanied by blood or resembles coffee grounds, you should seek immediate medical attention.

5. Fever or Chills: These could indicate an infection, especially if the bone has caused a perforation or other complications.

Given that you are currently asymptomatic, it may not be necessary to undergo an X-ray or endoscopy (gastroscopy) at this time. However, if you experience any of the concerning symptoms mentioned above, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an X-ray, to determine if the bone is still present in your gastrointestinal tract.

In some cases, small bones can pass through the digestive system without causing any harm. The body is quite capable of handling small foreign objects, and many people have experienced similar situations without any complications. However, it is always better to err on the side of caution, especially if you start to feel unwell.

In conclusion, while your current lack of symptoms is encouraging, remain vigilant for any changes in your condition. If you develop any concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. It is always better to be safe and have a professional evaluate your situation if you have any doubts. Remember, your health and peace of mind are paramount, and healthcare providers are there to help you navigate these concerns.

Similar Q&A

Accidentally Swallowed Chicken Bone: When to Seek Medical Attention?

If you accidentally ingested a chicken bone during lunch and now feel a sensation of something stuck in your throat, but you are not experiencing pain while swallowing, and occasionally cough, should you seek immediate medical attention or just drink water?

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if you experience persistent pain or difficulty swallowing, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. If there are no obvious symptoms, you may start with self-monitoring.

Accidental Chicken Bone Ingestion: Should You Seek Medical Attention?

This morning, I ate a piece of fried chicken that was leftover from yesterday. When I swallowed it, I felt a sharp sensation in my throat, but I swallowed it anyway. After that, I didn't experience any further issues. Do I need to go to the hospital for a check-up, or should...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
We can observe it further.

Accidentally Swallowed a Chicken Bone: Symptoms and Diagnosis Guide

If someone accidentally swallows a chicken bone, can an X-ray determine whether it is still in the throat or has moved to another location? What symptoms should one look for to assess the severity of the situation? I would like to understand what methods can be used to evaluate o...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if a foreign object is lodged, the most common symptoms are pain or difficulty swallowing. If you experience these symptoms or have ongoing concerns, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation from an otolaryngologist or a gastroenterologist. Wishing you safety and healt...

Accidentally Swallowed Chicken Bone: Risks and Symptoms Explained

On December 21st around noon, I accidentally swallowed a chicken bone that seemed to be about 1 to 2 centimeters long. After swallowing it, I didn't feel any significant pain. I would like to know if the bone safely passed through the esophagus and throat, could it still cau...

Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Ms. 647: Most likely, it will not happen, but there is no guarantee. It is recommended to monitor the situation. If any symptoms of discomfort arise, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. Dr. Cai JinjI, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology, Nantou ...