Choking on Water: Risks and What to Do After

Choking on water?

Hello Doctor: On the evening of October 25th, I choked while drinking water.
Since I still had water in my mouth at the time, I held back my cough and swallowed all the water before I coughed.
Afterwards, I started to worry whether not coughing immediately could cause all the water I swallowed to go into my lungs.
The more I think about it, the more anxious I become, so I hope you can help clarify this for me.
Thank you.

M Jun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/25

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! The swallowed water typically travels through the esophagus into the stomach.
When food or drink is about to enter the trachea instead of the esophagus, if your swallowing ability is intact, your body will instantly recognize the danger and reflexively cough to expel the material that is about to enter the trachea.
A forceful cough can usually push the material out, making complications unlikely.
It is advisable to monitor the situation further, and if you experience any discomfort, please consult a pulmonologist.

Reply Date: 2020/10/25

More Info

Choking on water can be a distressing experience, and it’s understandable to feel anxious about the potential consequences. When you choke, the body’s natural response is to cough, which helps to expel any foreign material from the airway. However, if you manage to swallow the water before coughing, it’s important to understand the implications and what steps to take afterward.

Firstly, if you choked on water but were able to swallow it before coughing, the likelihood of the water entering your lungs is relatively low. The trachea (windpipe) and esophagus (food pipe) are separate tubes, and the body has mechanisms in place to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway. The epiglottis, a flap of tissue, closes over the trachea when you swallow, directing food and liquid into the esophagus. However, if you experienced a choking sensation, it’s possible that some water may have briefly entered the airway, which could lead to coughing or a feeling of discomfort.

In most cases, if you are able to cough afterward, your body is likely clearing any residual water from your airway. Coughing is an effective reflex that helps to remove any irritants or foreign substances from the lungs. If you did not cough immediately but felt fine afterward, it’s a good sign that your airway was not significantly compromised.

However, it’s essential to be aware of potential symptoms that could indicate complications, such as aspiration pneumonia, which can occur if water or food particles enter the lungs. Symptoms to watch for include:
1. Persistent Coughing: If you continue to cough for an extended period, it may indicate that something is still lodged in your airway.

2. Wheezing or Difficulty Breathing: If you experience wheezing or shortness of breath, it could suggest that your airway is partially obstructed.

3. Chest Pain or Discomfort: Any unusual pain in the chest area should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

4. Fever or Chills: These symptoms could indicate an infection, such as aspiration pneumonia.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider may perform a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging studies to assess your lungs and airways.

In terms of prevention, here are some tips to reduce the risk of choking on water in the future:
- Take Smaller Sips: When drinking, take smaller sips to minimize the risk of choking.

- Avoid Talking or Laughing While Drinking: This can help prevent accidental inhalation of water.

- Stay Calm: If you feel yourself choking, try to remain calm and allow your body to respond naturally. Coughing is your best defense.

In summary, while choking on water can be alarming, if you were able to cough afterward and are not experiencing any concerning symptoms, it is likely that you are okay. However, remain vigilant for any signs of complications, and don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional if you have any doubts or persistent symptoms. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, so it’s always better to err on the side of caution.

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