Is Choking on Food Causing My Father's Fever and Pneumonia?

Q: Is Choking on Food Causing My Father's Fever and Pneumonia?

Hello： The bronchi in the human body instinctively produce a cough response to external stimuli in order to expel foreign objects. <br>Based on your description, your father accidentally choked, and although patting his back has improved the situation, the subsequent symptoms of

Could this be pneumonia caused by aspiration of food? Thank you?

Hello, recently my dad choked while eating.
I immediately helped him by patting his back, and he coughed as well.
He mentioned that the feeling of having something stuck is lessened.
However, that afternoon after he took a shower, he started feeling very cold and subsequently developed a fever.
Although his condition is stable now, I am still a bit worried.
I would like to ask the doctor if aspiration pneumonia caused by choking on food can lead to a fever within just a few hours? Or should I take my father for a more detailed examination to rule out other causes of the fever? Thank you.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/26

Dr. Wang Lanfeng reply Pulmonology

Hello: The bronchi in the human body instinctively produce a cough response to external stimuli in order to expel foreign objects.
Based on your description, your father accidentally choked, and although patting his back has improved the situation, the subsequent symptoms of chills and fever may indicate that choking has caused an inflammatory response in the lungs.
Please seek medical attention at a pulmonology clinic as soon as possible.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2022/01/26

More Info

Choking on food can indeed lead to serious complications, including aspiration pneumonia, which occurs when food or liquid enters the lungs instead of the stomach. This can trigger an inflammatory response in the lungs, leading to symptoms such as cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. In your father's case, the sequence of events you described—choking, followed by coughing, and then the onset of fever—raises concerns about the possibility of aspiration pneumonia.

When a person chokes, especially if they are unable to clear the airway effectively, there is a risk that food particles or liquids can be inhaled into the lungs. This can introduce bacteria from the mouth or throat into the lungs, leading to infection. The development of fever can be a sign of this infection, as the body responds to the presence of pathogens.

Typically, the onset of symptoms related to aspiration pneumonia can vary. In some cases, symptoms may develop within hours, especially if a significant amount of material has been aspirated. Fever can occur as part of the body's immune response to the infection. However, it is also important to consider that fever can arise from other causes, such as a viral infection or other underlying health issues, especially in older adults or those with pre-existing conditions.

Given your father's recent choking incident and subsequent fever, it would be prudent to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, chest X-ray, or other diagnostic tests to assess for signs of pneumonia or other complications. They may also check for any signs of respiratory distress or other symptoms that could indicate a more serious condition.

In the meantime, monitor your father's symptoms closely. If he experiences increased difficulty breathing, persistent cough, or worsening fever, it is essential to seek immediate medical care. Additionally, ensure he stays hydrated and rests, as these are important for recovery.

In summary, while choking can lead to aspiration pneumonia and subsequent fever, it is crucial to have your father evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out any serious complications and to receive appropriate treatment. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes in cases of aspiration pneumonia.

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