Swallowed Fish Bone: What to Do When You Feel Pain in Your Throat? - Otolaryngology

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Accidental ingestion of a fish bone?


When a small fish bone gets stuck, there may be a sharp pain in the throat and deep in the ear when swallowing.
If after some time, such as going to the bathroom, the pain and foreign body sensation disappear, does this mean that the fish bone has been swallowed or possibly expelled without notice? Or could it be lodged deeper?

Ms. Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/30

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology


Hello, if there is no obvious pain or foreign body sensation, most fish bones have likely been removed, and you can observe yourself for now.
However, if you continue to experience throat pain or have a fever, it is advisable to see an otolaryngologist for examination.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/11/30

More Info


When you swallow a fish bone and experience sharp pain in your throat, it can be quite alarming. The sensation of pain or discomfort, especially if it radiates to the ear, is often due to irritation or injury to the throat tissues. In many cases, if you manage to dislodge the bone yourself and the pain subsides, it is likely that the bone has either been expelled or has passed through your throat without causing significant harm.

However, there are several important considerations to keep in mind regarding this situation:
1. Immediate Symptoms: The initial pain you felt could have been due to the fish bone irritating the mucosal lining of your throat. If you were able to alleviate the pain by coughing or swallowing, it suggests that the bone may have been dislodged. The throat is quite resilient, and minor injuries often heal quickly.

2. Monitoring for Symptoms: After an incident like this, it is crucial to monitor for any persistent or worsening symptoms. If you experience ongoing pain, difficulty swallowing, or a sensation of something stuck in your throat, it may indicate that the bone is still lodged or that there is an injury that requires medical attention.

3. Potential Complications: In rare cases, a fish bone can become lodged in the throat or esophagus, leading to complications such as infection, perforation, or abscess formation. If you experience severe pain, fever, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

4. Medical Evaluation: If you are uncertain whether the bone has passed or if you continue to feel discomfort, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They may perform a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging studies such as X-rays or endoscopy to locate any foreign objects.

5. Home Remedies: While some people may attempt to dislodge a fish bone by swallowing soft foods (like bread or bananas) or drinking water, these methods are not always effective and can sometimes lead to further discomfort. It is generally safer to avoid these home remedies if you suspect a bone is lodged.

6. Prevention: To avoid future incidents, be cautious when eating fish, especially those with small bones. Chewing thoroughly and being aware of the type of fish you are consuming can help minimize the risk of swallowing bones.

In summary, if the pain has subsided and you no longer feel any discomfort or sensation of a foreign body in your throat, it is likely that the fish bone has either been expelled or passed through without causing significant harm. However, if you have any lingering concerns or symptoms, it is best to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Your health and safety should always come first, and when in doubt, seeking professional advice is the best course of action.

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