Upon arrival at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, she complained of severe pain in her chest behind the sternum. An endoscopy revealed a whole pill, with 3 sharp edges and approximately 1 cm wide, lodged in the upper third of her esophagus, causing scratches and mild inflammation of the lining of the gastric antrum.

The object was successfully removed through endoscopy. After the procedure, her condition stabilized, and she was discharged. Doctors advised her on home care and follow-up, emphasizing the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if any unusual symptoms occur, such as bleeding, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, or vomiting.

The whole pill removed from Hieu's esophagus. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

The whole pill removed from Hieu's esophagus. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Phan Tuan Trong from the Emergency Department explained that choking on foreign objects is a dangerous incident that can occur in various situations, especially when eating or drinking hurriedly, without focus, or while talking and laughing during meals. Children under 5 are more prone to this accident due to their lack of awareness, often putting small objects like toys, coins, or seeds into their mouths.

Elderly individuals, those with neurological conditions or esophageal disorders (such as Parkinson's disease, stroke, or esophageal stricture), are also at risk due to impaired swallowing function. Alcohol consumption, sedative use, or participation in dangerous eating challenges can also increase the likelihood of choking.

Sharp objects like bones, toothpicks, dentures, button batteries, or metal objects and magnets can puncture or tear the esophagus, causing serious damage, and if left untreated, can lead to mediastinal infections. Large objects that completely obstruct the airway, such as coins, fruit, round seeds, or jelly, increase the risk of blockage, respiratory failure, and pose a life-threatening situation.

Individuals who have choked on a foreign object often experience a burning sensation when swallowing, a feeling of something stuck in their throat, vomiting, coughing, fever, or chest pain. Doctor Trong strongly advises against attempting to self-treat by swallowing more food or inducing vomiting, as this can worsen the situation. If choking on a foreign object is suspected, immediate medical attention at a specialized facility is crucial for prompt endoscopy and treatment. To prevent such incidents, everyone should eat slowly and chew thoroughly.

Nhat Thanh

*The patient's name has been changed.