Concerns About Ingesting Foreign Objects: What to Do Next?

Suspected ingestion?

Doctor, I'm sorry! Yesterday while I was eating, a small screw from the nose pad of my glasses came loose and fell off.
I searched everywhere at home but couldn't find the screw, and I'm a bit worried that I might have accidentally swallowed it with my food.
I would like to know what impact this could have on my body.
If I go to see a doctor, which department should I visit? Would they perform an X-ray or an endoscopy? However, I'm not even sure if I actually swallowed it.
If I go to see a doctor and nothing is wrong, it might be a waste of medical resources, so I wanted to ask here first!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/25

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Suspected ingestion of a foreign object, such as a small screw, typically results in spontaneous passage if the gastrointestinal tract is structurally normal and has not undergone surgery.
If there are concerns, an X-ray can be performed to check for the presence of foreign objects.
Generally, when a foreign object is ingested, there is a risk of it getting stuck in the esophagus, which can cause chest pain, affect breathing, and lead to aspiration pneumonia, a medical emergency.
Some foreign objects may become lodged in narrow areas of the gastrointestinal tract, causing inflammation, bleeding, obstruction, or perforation.
If symptoms are present, medical attention should be sought, and one can visit the emergency department, gastroenterology, or general surgery.
Wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2023/01/25

More Info

Ingesting foreign objects can be a concerning situation, especially when it involves small metallic parts like the screw from your eyeglasses. Here’s a detailed overview of what you should consider and the steps you can take.

Potential Risks of Ingesting a Foreign Object
1. Physical Injury: If the screw was ingested, it could potentially cause physical harm to your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Sharp or pointed objects can lead to lacerations, perforations, or blockages. The severity of these injuries can vary based on the size, shape, and material of the object.

2. Chemical Reactions: Depending on the material of the screw, there could be a risk of chemical reactions within your body. For example, if the screw is made of a metal that can corrode, it might lead to localized irritation or more severe reactions.

3. Symptoms to Watch For: If you did ingest the screw, you might experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, or changes in bowel habits. If any of these symptoms occur, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

What to Do Next
1. Monitor Symptoms: Since you are uncertain whether you ingested the screw, it’s essential to monitor your body for any unusual symptoms. If you start experiencing any discomfort or the symptoms mentioned above, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.

2. Consult a Doctor: If you are feeling anxious about the possibility of having ingested the screw, it is advisable to consult a doctor. You can start with your primary care physician, who can assess your situation and guide you on the next steps.
3. Specialty Consultation: If your primary care physician deems it necessary, they may refer you to a gastroenterologist, a specialist in digestive system disorders. They can perform further evaluations, which may include imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans to check for the presence of the foreign object.

4. Imaging Studies: An X-ray is often the first step in evaluating the ingestion of a foreign object, especially if it is metallic. X-rays can help determine if the object is present in your GI tract. If the screw is not visible on X-ray and you are symptomatic, further evaluation with an endoscopy might be warranted. An endoscopy allows for direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine, and it can also facilitate the removal of the object if necessary.

5. Avoiding Unnecessary Visits: If you are asymptomatic and feel confident that you did not ingest the screw, you may choose to monitor your condition without immediate medical intervention. However, if you have any doubts or develop symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

Conclusion
Ingesting a foreign object can be concerning, but not all cases lead to serious complications. Monitoring your symptoms and consulting with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns is the best course of action. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. If you feel uneasy about the situation, seeking medical advice is a responsible decision.

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