How to Determine if You've Swallowed a Fish Bone: Self-Assessment Tips

Uncertain whether it is a case of accidentally swallowing a fishbone or a psychological effect?

Hello, Doctor.
Last night I ate a dish with baby fish and scrambled eggs.
While eating, I felt something prickly from the fish, but I didn't pay much attention since it was baby fish.
Later in the evening, I felt a sensation of something foreign when swallowing saliva, and I'm unsure if I might have a fishbone stuck in my throat.
I would like to ask how I can assess this situation.
Thank you.
Considering the pandemic, I don't want to take up medical resources, so I want to evaluate this myself first.
I have had a few previous experiences where I felt a fishbone stuck and went for an endoscopy, and the doctor found a small sore in my throat but no fishbone.
I'm not sure if it was just psychological.
Could you please advise me on how to self-monitor? Thank you.

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/30

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, it is recommended to follow a light diet for the next week.
Theoretically, if a fishbone is indeed lodged in the throat, the symptoms may gradually appear as follows: 1.
Increased pain when swallowing saliva 2.
Difficulty swallowing saliva 3.
Fever 4.
Chest pain 5.
Back pain.
However, if the symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist.

Reply Date: 2022/05/30

More Info

Determining whether you've swallowed a fish bone can be a source of anxiety, especially if you're experiencing discomfort or a sensation of something stuck in your throat. Here are some self-assessment tips to help you evaluate your situation:
1. Monitor Symptoms: After a suspected incident of swallowing a fish bone, it’s essential to keep track of any symptoms that may arise. Common signs that may indicate a fish bone is lodged in your throat include:
- Persistent pain or discomfort when swallowing.

- A sensation of something being stuck in your throat.

- Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of tightness in the throat.

- Increased salivation or difficulty swallowing saliva.

- Coughing or gagging.

- Fever or chills, which could indicate an infection.

2. Time Frame: If you experience any of the above symptoms, monitor them for at least a week. If the discomfort persists beyond this period or worsens, it’s advisable to seek medical attention. Fish bones can sometimes cause irritation or injury to the throat or esophagus, leading to complications if not addressed.

3. Dietary Adjustments: For the first few days following the incident, consider consuming a soft diet. Foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or smoothies can help soothe the throat and may assist in dislodging any small bones if they are present. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could exacerbate any irritation.

4. Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial. Drinking plenty of water can help wash down any small particles that may be stuck in your throat. Some people find that swallowing soft bread or rice can help dislodge a fish bone, but this should be done cautiously.

5. Self-Examination: If you feel comfortable, you can try to look in the mirror and examine your throat with a flashlight. However, be cautious not to cause further irritation or injury. If you see any visible signs of injury or a foreign object, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional.

6. Psychological Factors: It’s not uncommon for individuals to feel discomfort or a sensation of something stuck in their throat due to anxiety or psychological factors. If you find that your symptoms are mild and not worsening, it may be helpful to practice relaxation techniques or distraction methods to alleviate your concerns.

7. When to Seek Medical Attention: If you experience severe pain, difficulty breathing, or if symptoms persist for more than a week, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. An ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist can perform a thorough examination, including imaging studies or endoscopy if necessary, to determine if a fish bone is present.

In summary, while it’s understandable to want to avoid unnecessary medical visits, it’s essential to listen to your body. If your symptoms are mild and manageable, self-monitoring and dietary adjustments may suffice. However, if you experience significant discomfort or if symptoms persist, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and seeking medical advice when in doubt is always a wise choice.

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