Swallowed Fish Bones: What You Need to Know About Potential Risks

I'm not sure if I've eaten fish bones?

Hello doctor, I was eating a fish called "sea bass," and my mom said it doesn't have bones, but when I ate the edges, I encountered small, short things that felt like either spines or bones.
I swallowed one bite without knowing if it contained anything, and I spat out another one that was short and not sharp.
I would like to ask if this poses any danger.
I went to an ENT specialist who looked and said he didn't see anything, and I don't feel any pain.
He mentioned that even if I swallowed something, it might have gone into my stomach and told me not to worry too much.
However, I'm still anxious and unsure if I should get checked again.
My family says that if it was really small, it shouldn't be a problem.
My dad said that it would go down with the food and wouldn't get stuck, but I read online that it could get lodged or puncture the stomach.
Could you please tell me what symptoms I might expect in such cases, or should I just try not to worry and observe? Thank you!

Graces, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/28

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, based on your description, it seems that the object has likely entered the stomach.
Generally, bones or fish bones that enter the stomach will be broken down and excreted.
Unless you experience any discomfort later, such as stomach pain or fever, there is no need to worry.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2021/02/28

More Info

Swallowing fish bones can understandably cause concern, especially when you are unsure about the size and sharpness of the bone. In your case, it seems that you may have ingested a small, short bone from a fish called "海鱺魚" (which translates to "Sea Bass" in English). While it is always best to err on the side of caution, there are several factors to consider regarding the potential risks associated with swallowing fish bones.

Firstly, small fish bones, especially those that are not sharp, often pass through the digestive tract without causing any harm. The human gastrointestinal system is quite resilient and can handle small foreign objects. In most cases, if the bone is small and not pointed, it will likely be broken down by stomach acids and eventually excreted without any issues. Your doctor’s assessment, which indicated that there was no visible obstruction or injury, is reassuring. The absence of pain or discomfort is also a good sign that your body is managing the situation well.

However, it is important to be aware of the symptoms that could indicate a problem. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention promptly:
1. Severe Abdominal Pain: If you develop sharp or severe pain in your abdomen, it could indicate that the bone has caused an injury or obstruction.

2. Vomiting: If you start vomiting, especially if it contains blood or resembles coffee grounds, this could be a sign of internal bleeding.

3. Difficulty Swallowing: If you have trouble swallowing or feel like something is stuck in your throat, this could indicate that the bone is lodged somewhere in the esophagus.

4. Fever: A fever may suggest an infection, which could occur if there is a perforation in the gastrointestinal tract.

5. Changes in Bowel Movements: If you notice blood in your stool or experience significant changes in your bowel habits, this could also be a cause for concern.

In general, if you do not experience any of these symptoms, it is likely that you can monitor your condition without immediate concern. Staying hydrated and eating soft foods may help ease any potential discomfort as your body processes the bone.

Regarding your family’s comments, it is true that small objects can often pass through the digestive system without causing issues, especially if they are consumed with food. The digestive process typically helps to move such objects along. However, it is always wise to remain vigilant and listen to your body.

In summary, while swallowing a small fish bone can be alarming, the likelihood of serious complications is low, especially if you are not experiencing any adverse symptoms. Continue to observe your condition, and if you notice anything unusual, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation. It is always better to be safe and ensure that everything is functioning as it should.

Similar Q&A

Concerns About Swallowing Fish Bones: What to Watch For

If you accidentally swallowed a small fish bone, approximately 1 cm in size, from handling fish skin, and you do not feel any injury in your throat, you should monitor for any symptoms. Observe for the following signs over the next 24 to 48 hours: 1. Difficulty swallowing or pai...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
As stated, there should be no issues, but please be careful in the future.

Concerns About Fish Bones: What to Do If You Suspect Ingestion

Hello doctor, while I was having dinner with cod fish, I might have accidentally swallowed a small fish bone near the fin area. Later, I induced vomiting and expelled a lot of vegetables and fish, but I still feel a strange sensation in my throat. Although I don't experience...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, based on your description, it seems that you likely did not swallow a fishbone. The throat pain may be caused by forceful coughing. I suggest not to worry too much. Thank you for your inquiry.

Accidentally Swallowed Fish Bone: What to Do and What to Expect

On the evening of Sunday, May 27th, I accidentally swallowed a bone from a milkfish during dinner. I went to a clinic at 8 PM to check if it was lodged in my throat. They used a nasal endoscope but did not find any fish bone, so the doctor advised me to monitor the situation. Ove...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if there are no obvious symptoms such as pain while swallowing, a sensation of a foreign body, or fever, it is unlikely that a fishbone is lodged in the esophagus. You may first observe your condition. If you experience any discomfort, you can visit a gastroenterologist to...

What to Do If You Swallow a Fish Bone: Expert Advice

Hello Dr. Chen: What should I do if I swallowed a fish bone? It is a medium-sized bone from a grouper, and it seems to have already gone into my stomach. Thank you.

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, if a fishbone has been swallowed, it will quickly pass through the stomach to the intestines. Unless it perforates the intestinal wall and presents symptoms of peritonitis, it will usually be expelled with the feces. Wishing you health, Dr. Chen Qi-Feng, Taoyuan General Ho...