How to Seek Medical Help for Esophageal Foreign Body Issues

How to seek medical attention for esophageal foreign body?

Hello! It seems that I have something stuck in my esophagus, and I feel discomfort while eating.
I also have the sensation of a foreign object when swallowing.
How should I seek medical attention?

beiki, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/03/25

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

1.
If there is a true case of foreign body ingestion or a fishbone lodged in the throat, one should go to the emergency department or an otolaryngology specialist for examination.
2.
If there is a sensation of a foreign body in the esophagus or discomfort while swallowing, one can visit a gastroenterology or general internal medicine clinic for evaluation and treatment.
A gastroscopy should be performed on an empty stomach.

Reply Date: 2007/03/25

More Info

If you suspect that you have an esophageal foreign body, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. An esophageal foreign body can cause significant discomfort and potentially lead to serious complications, including perforation of the esophagus, infection, or obstruction. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to seek medical help for this issue:
1. Recognize Symptoms: Common symptoms of an esophageal foreign body include a sensation of something stuck in the throat or chest, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), pain during swallowing, drooling, and sometimes chest pain. If you experience severe pain, difficulty breathing, or are unable to swallow saliva, you should seek emergency medical care immediately.

2. Visit the Emergency Room: If you are experiencing severe symptoms, go to the nearest emergency room. Medical professionals there can perform an initial assessment and provide immediate care. They may conduct imaging studies, such as X-rays or a CT scan, to locate the foreign body.

3. Consult a Specialist: If the foreign body is confirmed, you may be referred to a gastroenterologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. These specialists have the expertise to manage esophageal foreign bodies. They may perform an endoscopy, a procedure where a flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to visualize and potentially remove the foreign object.

4. Prepare for Your Visit: When you go to the hospital or clinic, be prepared to provide information about your symptoms, when they started, and any attempts you made to remove the object. If you know what the foreign body is (e.g., food, a piece of plastic), mention that as well. Bring any relevant medical history, including allergies and current medications.

5. Follow-Up Care: After the removal of the foreign body, follow your doctor’s instructions for recovery. You may need to avoid certain foods or activities for a period of time. If you experience any new symptoms, such as fever, increased pain, or difficulty swallowing, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

6. Prevention: To prevent future incidents, be mindful while eating. Chew food thoroughly and avoid talking or laughing while eating. If you have a history of swallowing difficulties, discuss this with your doctor, as they may recommend further evaluation or dietary modifications.

In terms of resources, if you are in a foreign country, it may be helpful to contact local hospitals or clinics that specialize in gastroenterology. Many hospitals have English-speaking staff who can assist you. You can also check online for reviews or recommendations for specialists in the area.

In summary, if you suspect an esophageal foreign body, do not delay in seeking medical help. Early intervention is key to preventing complications and ensuring a swift recovery. Always prioritize your health and safety by consulting with healthcare professionals when in doubt.

Similar Q&A

Should You See a Doctor After Swallowing a Foreign Object?

Hello doctor, I accidentally swallowed a piece of plastic (about two-thirds the size of a one-dollar coin). I feel fine at the moment, but do I need to see a doctor, or will it pass naturally?

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Most cases of foreign body ingestion, if the gastrointestinal tract is structurally and functionally normal, will result in the expulsion of the ingested object. However, it is important to consider the type of foreign body ingested, such as fish bones or toothpicks, as th...

How to Handle Fish Bone Throat Injuries: Essential Steps and Precautions

Hello doctor, my family member got a fish bone stuck in their throat near the tonsils while eating fish at night. We tried to remove it but failed and are hesitant to try again due to bleeding. I have read that 1) we should not swallow food as it may push the bone deeper, 2) we c...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: If the foreign object does not dislodge on its own and throat pain persists, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately to have the foreign object removed. As for the method of removal, it may need to be determined by a clinical physician based on the situatio...

Choking While Eating: When to Seek Medical Help for Throat Obstruction

The doctor accidentally choked while eating and feels that a foreign object has entered the trachea. Although they forcefully expelled some food, they still feel that some remains are lodged. Currently, breathing is relatively smooth, and there are no abnormal sounds, but there i...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Under normal circumstances, the presence of a foreign body in the trachea will trigger a cough reflex, and most of the time, the foreign body can be cleared effectively. However, if coughing or fever persists, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. Regarding the neces...

Understanding Chest Pain: Esophageal Issues and Endoscopy Insights

Hello, Doctor. I accidentally swallowed a fish bone on the evening of April 26. I visited the ENT department on the afternoon of April 27, where the doctor noted only throat inflammation and could not see the fish bone. He advised that if I felt unwell, I should go to a larger ho...

Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● It has been approximately 2 weeks. If there were a severe esophageal or gastrointestinal perforation, the symptoms would be quite serious; currently, there are no such signs, so you can be somewhat reassured. Generally, if a fishbone is present in the digestive tract, it should...