Choking on Water: Risks and When to Seek Medical Help

Q: Choking on Water: Risks and When to Seek Medical Help

Hello： Boiled water is relatively cleaner compared to creek water or broth, and it is less likely to cause pneumonia. <br>Some elderly individuals, before removing their nasogastric tube, start by drinking a little boiled water orally, as aspirating water is less likely to lead t

Choking on water issue?

Hello, Doctor.
I think I choked on water while drinking, but since I still had water in my mouth, I held my breath and swallowed the water before breathing again.
After that, I only coughed two or three times, and my breathing is normal now.
I don't feel a strong urge to cough.
I would like to ask you:
1.
If I choked on water and it didn't come out but went into my lungs (as described), what issues could arise? Is there a risk of dry drowning or aspiration pneumonia, like what is reported in the news?
2.
Under what circumstances should I seek medical attention?

123, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/12

Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology

Hello: Boiled water is relatively cleaner compared to creek water or broth, and it is less likely to cause pneumonia.
Some elderly individuals, before removing their nasogastric tube, start by drinking a little boiled water orally, as aspirating water is less likely to lead to pneumonia.

Reply Date: 2019/03/12

More Info

Choking on water can be a distressing experience, and while it may seem minor at the moment, understanding the potential risks and when to seek medical help is crucial. Here’s a comprehensive overview based on your concerns.

1. Risks of Water Aspiration
When water is aspirated (inhaled into the lungs), it can lead to several complications. The primary concern is aspiration pneumonia, which occurs when foreign materials, such as water or food, enter the lungs and cause inflammation or infection. This can happen even if the person does not exhibit immediate symptoms.
Dry Drowning vs. Wet Drowning:
- Dry drowning refers to a situation where a person experiences respiratory distress after inhaling water, leading to airway spasms and suffocation without the water entering the lungs. This is more common in cases of drowning but is not typically associated with drinking water.

- Wet drowning occurs when water enters the lungs, which can lead to pulmonary edema and respiratory failure.
In your case, if you managed to swallow the water and did not experience significant coughing or difficulty breathing afterward, the risk of developing aspiration pneumonia is lower, but not negligible.

2. Symptoms to Watch For
After a choking incident, it’s essential to monitor for any delayed symptoms that may indicate complications. These include:
- Persistent Coughing: If you continue to cough, especially if it becomes painful or produces phlegm.

- Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling like you can't catch your breath.

- Chest Pain: Any discomfort or pain in the chest area.

- Fever: A rise in body temperature can indicate an infection.

- Wheezing or Stridor: Noisy breathing can suggest airway obstruction or irritation.

3. When to Seek Medical Help
You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Severe Difficulty Breathing: If you feel like you cannot breathe or are gasping for air.

- Persistent Coughing: If you cannot stop coughing or if the cough worsens.

- Chest Pain: If you experience significant pain that does not resolve.

- Fever: If you develop a fever after the incident, indicating a possible infection.

- Confusion or Drowsiness: Any changes in your mental status could indicate a lack of oxygen.

Conclusion
In summary, while choking on water can be alarming, if you are currently breathing normally and do not have any persistent symptoms, the risk of serious complications is relatively low. However, it is essential to remain vigilant for any signs of respiratory distress or infection in the days following the incident. If you notice any concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical attention.
Always remember that prevention is key. Take your time when drinking, especially if you are feeling rushed or distracted, to minimize the risk of choking in the first place. If you have a history of swallowing difficulties or recurrent choking episodes, it may be worthwhile to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management.

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