Post-Choking Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention

Q: Post-Choking Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello： If you have persistent hoarseness in your throat (which is part of the upper respiratory tract), please consult an otolaryngologist. <br>If there is a foreign body in the bronchi (which is part of the lower respiratory tract), small foreign objects may be coughed out on th

Symptoms after choking?

Hello Doctor: On May 26, while drinking milk tea and eating a hamburger, I choked while talking to a colleague.
I felt like I choked because there were people around, but I still swallowed it down.
After that, I went to the restroom and coughed.
A day or two later, I started to experience hoarseness (which has persisted), phlegm, a dry and itchy throat, and swallowing saliva does not cause pain.
Today, June 13, I still feel a lot of itchiness in my throat, and I cough slightly; after speaking a few sentences, my voice becomes hoarse and my throat hurts.
I have read many articles about foreign bodies in the bronchus.

1.
Could this possibly be a foreign body lodged in the bronchus entering a quiet phase?
2.
Is it possible for small foreign bodies to be absorbed by the body? (Similar to sesame seeds or hamburger crumbs)
3.
Which specialty should I consult for an appropriate examination?
Thank you for your response!

NN, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/13

Dr. Cai Zongwei reply Pulmonology

Hello: If you have persistent hoarseness in your throat (which is part of the upper respiratory tract), please consult an otolaryngologist.
If there is a foreign body in the bronchi (which is part of the lower respiratory tract), small foreign objects may be coughed out on their own, but larger or deeper objects should be evaluated by a pulmonologist, especially if you experience symptoms such as chest tightness, chest pain, difficulty breathing, fever, or a prolonged cough that does not improve.

Reply Date: 2023/06/13

More Info

When it comes to post-choking symptoms, it is essential to understand the potential implications and when to seek medical attention. Based on your description, it seems you experienced a choking incident while eating, which has led to ongoing symptoms such as hoarseness, throat irritation, and a persistent cough. Let's break down your concerns and provide some clarity.

1. Possibility of Foreign Object in the Airway: After a choking incident, it is indeed possible for a small foreign object to become lodged in the airway or bronchial passages. This can lead to a condition known as "silent aspiration," where the object may not cause immediate distress but can lead to inflammation or infection over time. The symptoms you are experiencing—hoarseness, throat irritation, and a persistent cough—could indicate that there is still some irritation in your throat or that a foreign body is present. However, it is also possible that these symptoms are due to other factors such as post-nasal drip or a viral infection.

2. Absorption of Small Foreign Objects: In some cases, small food particles or debris (like sesame seeds or small bits of bread) may be absorbed by the body or pass through the digestive system without causing harm. However, if a foreign object is lodged in the airway, it typically does not get absorbed and may require medical intervention to remove it. The body's response to foreign materials can vary, and while some small particles may be expelled through coughing, others may lead to complications if they remain lodged.

3. Which Specialist to Consult: Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist. An ENT doctor can perform a thorough examination of your throat and airway, possibly using a laryngoscope to visualize any obstructions or signs of injury. If there is a concern about aspiration into the lungs, a pulmonologist may also be involved in your care. They can conduct imaging studies, such as a chest X-ray or CT scan, to assess for any foreign bodies or signs of aspiration pneumonia.

In summary, while it is possible that your symptoms are due to a foreign object lodged in your airway, they could also be attributed to other causes such as irritation from the choking incident or a viral infection. It is crucial to seek medical attention if your symptoms persist, worsen, or if you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, or significant changes in your voice. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to potential airway obstructions or respiratory issues.

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