Accidental Ingestion of Shrimp Shells and Vitamin C Tablets: Risks and Concerns

Accidental ingestion of shrimp shells and vitamin C chewable tablets?

Hello Doctor: The day before yesterday, I accidentally swallowed shrimp shell, which got stuck in my throat at the time and felt sharp.
I drank a lot of water to wash it down, and I believe I managed to dislodge it from my throat.
I would like to know if the shrimp shell could have caused any injury to my esophagus or gastrointestinal tract.
Additionally, this morning after taking a vitamin B capsule, I forgot to chew a vitamin C tablet (about the size of a ten-dollar coin) that is supposed to be chewed before swallowing, and I accidentally swallowed it with water.
Since the chewable tablet is quite large, I also drank a lot of water hoping to wash it down.
Currently, I feel that it has likely cleared my throat, but when I gently press on the bottom of my throat, I feel a slight foreign body sensation.
Could this chewable tablet cause any injury to my esophagus or gastrointestinal tract? Thank you, Doctor! Ms.
Chen

Ms. Chen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/25

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if there are no obvious symptoms later, the chances of shrimp shells or vitamin C chewable tablets injuring the esophagus or gastrointestinal tract should be low.
However, if symptoms such as abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, or fever occur, it is advisable to seek medical examination and treatment.
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: 2022/05/25

More Info

Accidental ingestion of foreign objects, such as shrimp shells and vitamin C tablets, can raise concerns about potential harm to the esophagus and gastrointestinal tract. Let's break down the risks associated with both incidents you described.

Ingestion of Shrimp Shells
Shrimp shells are hard and can be sharp, which raises the possibility of injury to the throat, esophagus, or stomach. When you initially felt the shell stuck in your throat, it was likely causing irritation or a sensation of obstruction. The fact that you were able to drink water and dislodge the shell is a positive sign, as it indicates that the shell did not remain lodged in your throat for an extended period.

However, even if the shell has passed through the throat, there is still a risk of minor injuries. Sharp objects can cause lacerations or abrasions in the esophagus or stomach lining. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Pain or discomfort in the throat or chest: This could indicate irritation or injury.

- Difficulty swallowing: If you experience ongoing difficulty, it may suggest that there is an injury or obstruction.

- Bleeding: If you notice blood in your saliva or stool, seek medical attention immediately.

- Persistent nausea or vomiting: This could indicate irritation or injury to the gastrointestinal tract.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Ingestion of Vitamin C Chewable Tablets
Chewable vitamin C tablets are typically designed to be consumed by chewing, which helps break them down for easier digestion. Swallowing a whole tablet, especially one as large as a ten-cent coin, can pose a risk of choking or esophageal injury. The fact that you felt a mild sensation of an object in your throat after swallowing the tablet suggests that it may not have passed smoothly through the esophagus.

Similar to the shrimp shell, the risks associated with swallowing a whole vitamin C tablet include:
- Choking: If the tablet gets stuck in the throat, it can obstruct the airway.

- Esophageal irritation: The acidity of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) can irritate the esophagus, especially if the tablet is not chewed properly.

- Gastrointestinal discomfort: If the tablet does not dissolve properly, it could lead to discomfort or irritation in the stomach.

Recommendations
1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any symptoms that may arise after these incidents. If you experience pain, difficulty swallowing, or any other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention.

2. Stay Hydrated: Drinking water can help facilitate the passage of any foreign objects through the gastrointestinal tract. However, if you continue to feel discomfort, it may be necessary to consult a healthcare professional.

3. Avoid Future Incidents: To prevent similar situations in the future, be cautious when consuming foods with hard or sharp components, and ensure that chewable tablets are properly chewed before swallowing.

4. Consult a Doctor: If you have persistent symptoms or concerns about potential injuries from these incidents, it is best to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and possible imaging studies to assess for any injuries.

In conclusion, while accidental ingestion of shrimp shells and vitamin C tablets can pose risks, careful monitoring and prompt medical attention if symptoms arise can help mitigate potential complications. Always prioritize safety and consult with a healthcare professional when in doubt.

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