Burned While Eating: When to Seek Medical Advice for Stomach Pain

Burned while eating?

Hello doctor, I just had dinner and wanted to check if the loofah was cooked.
I took a small piece directly from the pot and dipped it in cold water.
It felt not too hot, so I tried to bite it, but accidentally, the loofah slipped into my mouth and was very hot.
At that moment, I felt very uncomfortable and had chest pain.
I immediately drank ice water quickly to alleviate the pain.
After that, I slowly sipped water until it was slightly cool before swallowing.
I searched online for related news and then stopped eating.
About half an hour later, the pain eased to occasional mild discomfort in my chest, and sometimes I felt a bit of pain in my stomach (located just below the chest, above the navel).
It has been over an hour since the burn, and the situation is still similar, with slight discomfort.
Doctor, if I still feel mild pain, should I undergo an endoscopy? Do I need to fast before the endoscopy? Thank you, and I appreciate your help.

Heihei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/08/20

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, if you experience pain while swallowing food, you may consider undergoing an endoscopy.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian

Reply Date: 2018/08/20

More Info

When dealing with stomach pain after an incident of burning while eating, it is important to assess the severity of your symptoms and determine whether medical advice is necessary. Based on your description, it seems you experienced a thermal injury to your esophagus or stomach after consuming hot food. Here are some considerations and recommendations regarding your situation.

When to Seek Medical Advice
1. Persistent Pain: If you continue to experience pain in your chest or stomach after the initial incident, it is advisable to seek medical attention. While mild discomfort may resolve on its own, persistent or worsening pain could indicate more serious damage, such as esophageal burns or ulcers.

2. Difficulty Swallowing: If you find it increasingly difficult to swallow food or liquids, this is a sign that you should consult a healthcare professional. This could indicate swelling or damage to the esophagus.

3. Signs of Infection or Complications: If you develop symptoms such as fever, chills, or difficulty breathing, these could be signs of a more serious complication, and you should seek emergency care.

4. Duration of Symptoms: If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or worsen, it is essential to get evaluated by a doctor.

Diagnostic Procedures
Regarding your question about whether you need an endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD), this procedure can be very useful in assessing the extent of any damage to the esophagus or stomach.
- Endoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera down your throat to visualize the esophagus and stomach. It is typically recommended if there is significant pain, difficulty swallowing, or if there is a concern for serious injury.
- Fasting Before Endoscopy: Yes, you will generally need to fast before an endoscopy. This typically means not eating or drinking for at least 6-8 hours prior to the procedure to ensure that your stomach is empty, which allows for a clearer view and reduces the risk of aspiration.

Dietary Recommendations
While you are experiencing discomfort, there are several dietary adjustments you can make to help alleviate your symptoms:
1. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from spicy foods, acidic foods (like citrus and tomatoes), caffeine (including coffee and tea), and alcohol, as these can irritate the stomach lining and esophagus.

2. Eat Soft Foods: Focus on consuming soft, bland foods that are easy to swallow, such as mashed potatoes, applesauce, yogurt, and oatmeal. These are less likely to cause irritation.

3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, but opt for lukewarm or cool liquids rather than hot ones. Water is the best choice, and you may also consider herbal teas that are non-caffeinated.

4. Small, Frequent Meals: Instead of large meals, try eating smaller portions more frequently throughout the day. This can help reduce the burden on your stomach and may alleviate discomfort.

5. Chew Thoroughly: Take your time while eating and chew your food thoroughly to aid digestion and reduce the risk of further irritation.

Conclusion
In summary, while mild discomfort may not require immediate medical attention, persistent or worsening symptoms should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider. An endoscopy may be necessary to evaluate any potential damage, and dietary modifications can help manage your symptoms in the meantime. Always prioritize your health and do not hesitate to seek professional advice when in doubt.

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