Dealing with Food Particles Stuck in the Windpipe: What to Do?

Food particles lodged in the trachea?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about an incident that happened after I ate guava at night.
I felt something stuck in my trachea, similar to the sensation of a grain of rice lodged there.
I realized it at that moment and immediately started coughing, but I couldn't expel it.
In the past, I was able to cough out rice grains, but this time I felt a bit anxious.
I only had the sensation of a foreign object and no other symptoms, so I didn't pay much attention to it.
However, by around eleven o'clock before going to bed, it felt like I had phlegm that I couldn't swallow, along with the sensation of something being stuck.
Perhaps it was because I tried to swallow small fragments that it turned into this feeling.
I'm hesitant about whether to ignore it or if it will resolve itself in a few days.
Given the current pandemic, I prefer not to go directly to a clinic or hospital.
Is there anything I can do to resolve this on my own?

Huang Jiting, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/02

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, theoretically, fruit chunks should not get stuck in the throat for too long.
It is recommended to drink plenty of water, and they should pass down to the stomach quickly.
If there are no further discomforts, everything should be fine.
However, if throat discomfort persists, medical attention may be necessary.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2021/08/02

More Info

When dealing with the sensation of food particles stuck in the windpipe, it is essential to understand the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system, as well as the potential risks associated with aspiration. The windpipe, or trachea, is a crucial part of the airway that leads to the lungs, and any obstruction can lead to discomfort and, in severe cases, respiratory distress.

First and foremost, if you feel that food is lodged in your windpipe, it is important to remain calm. Panic can exacerbate the situation and make it more difficult to clear the obstruction. Coughing is the body's natural reflex to expel foreign objects from the airway, and it is often the first line of defense. If you find that coughing is not effective, there are several techniques you can try at home to help dislodge the food particle.

1. Hydration: Drinking water can help soothe the throat and may assist in moving the food particle down the esophagus rather than remaining in the trachea. Take small sips and see if that alleviates the sensation.

2. Controlled Coughing: Try to cough forcefully but in a controlled manner. This can sometimes help to dislodge the obstruction. You can also try to take a deep breath and then cough hard.

3. Postural Techniques: Leaning forward while coughing can sometimes help to expel the object. You can also try the Heimlich maneuver on yourself by placing a fist just above your navel and thrusting inward and upward.

4. Avoid Swallowing: It may be tempting to try to swallow the sensation away, but this can sometimes push the food further down the trachea. Instead, focus on coughing or drinking water.

5. Steam Inhalation: If you have access to a steamy environment, such as a hot shower, inhaling steam can help to soothe the throat and may assist in loosening any obstruction.

6. Monitor Symptoms: If the sensation persists or worsens, or if you develop additional symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or persistent coughing, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Even if you are hesitant to visit a clinic due to concerns about COVID-19, many healthcare facilities have implemented safety protocols to protect patients.

7. Emergency Situations: If you experience severe difficulty breathing, cyanosis (bluish color of the lips or face), or if you lose consciousness, call emergency services immediately. These symptoms indicate a more serious obstruction that requires immediate medical intervention.

In conclusion, while it is possible to manage minor sensations of food particles stuck in the windpipe at home, it is essential to be vigilant about your symptoms. If the sensation does not resolve or if you experience any worsening symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical help. Your health and safety should always be the priority.

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