Post-Choking Discomfort: Is It Aspiration Pneumonia?

Discomfort after choking?

Hello, Dr.
Hong.
Yesterday, on November 30th, while eating Korean hot pot, I accidentally inhaled some soup.
Half a day later, I experienced mild pain in my chest and back, a decreased appetite (eating more makes me feel a bit nauseous), and occasional shortness of breath (with some palpitations).
However, as of today, December 1st, I do not have a cough or fever.
I would like to ask the doctor if this could possibly be aspiration pneumonia, or if it is simply an overreaction causing discomfort.
Thank you, doctor.

JIM, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/01

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, based on your description, it seems that the inflammation in your throat is primarily caused by the broth, and it is unlikely to have resulted in aspiration pneumonia.
I recommend continuing to monitor the situation, and seek medical attention only if you experience symptoms such as fever, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2020/12/01

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the discomfort you are experiencing after choking while eating. Based on your description, it is understandable to be concerned about the possibility of aspiration pneumonia, especially following an incident where food or liquid may have entered the airway.

Aspiration pneumonia occurs when food, liquid, or other foreign materials are inhaled into the lungs, leading to inflammation and infection. Symptoms typically include cough, fever, difficulty breathing, and chest pain. However, it is important to note that not everyone who aspirates will develop pneumonia, and the symptoms can vary widely among individuals.

In your case, the mild chest and back pain, reduced appetite, and occasional feelings of breathlessness could be related to several factors. It is possible that these symptoms are a result of irritation in the airways or lungs due to the choking incident. This irritation can cause discomfort and may lead to a heightened awareness of your breathing, which could explain the sensation of breathlessness and palpitations you are experiencing.
The absence of cough and fever is a positive sign, as these are common indicators of infection. However, it is still important to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any worsening of your condition, such as the development of a persistent cough, fever, or increased difficulty breathing, it would be advisable to seek medical attention promptly.
In terms of the timeline, aspiration pneumonia can develop within hours to days after the incident, so it is essential to remain vigilant. If you continue to feel unwell or if your symptoms progress, a healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies, such as a chest X-ray or CT scan, to evaluate for any signs of aspiration or pneumonia.

Additionally, if you have a history of respiratory issues or if you are at higher risk for complications (such as older age, chronic lung disease, or immunocompromised status), it is even more critical to follow up with a healthcare professional.

In summary, while your symptoms could potentially indicate aspiration pneumonia, they may also be due to irritation from the choking incident itself. It is crucial to monitor your symptoms and seek medical advice if they worsen or if new symptoms develop.
Take care, and I hope you feel better soon.

Best regards.

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