What should I do if a hair is stuck in my throat?
Nov 18, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
After a hair gets stuck in the throat, it may cause a sensation of a foreign body and lead to symptoms such as nausea and dry heaving. During daily meals, one should pay close attention and try to chew food thoroughly and eat slowly. When a hair is lodged in the throat, treatment should be based on the specific situation and may include saltwater gargling, inducing vomiting, or seeking medical attention to alleviate the condition.
After a strand of hair becomes lodged in the throat, it may cause a sensation of a foreign body and can also lead to symptoms such as nausea and dry heaving. During daily meals, one should always pay attention and try to chew food thoroughly and eat slowly. When hair gets stuck in the throat, treatment should be based on the specific situation and may include rinsing with salt water, inducing vomiting, or seeking medical care.
1. Gargling with Salt Water
In general, a strand of hair stuck in the throat is usually not serious. Although hair is considered a foreign object, its adverse effects are minimal. Typically, the hair does not actually pierce the mucous membrane but may simply adhere to mucosal folds or within crevices, so significant discomfort is uncommon. In such cases, gargling with saline solution can help clear the hair from the pharynx. Even if the hair is accidentally swallowed, it will naturally pass through the digestive tract and be excreted in stool, so there is no need for excessive concern.
2. Vomiting
For some individuals, having hair stuck in the throat may trigger discomfort, and in severe cases, may induce vomiting. In such situations, one can press the back of the tongue with a spoon or inhale irritating odors to induce vomiting, thereby expelling the trapped hair from the throat.
3. Seeking Medical Care
If the above methods fail to resolve the issue, it is advisable to visit the otorhinolaryngology department at a hospital. The sensation may not necessarily be due to hair lodged in the throat but could stem from other distinct causes of foreign body sensation. A thorough examination of the throat and pharynx is recommended. If necessary, procedures such as electronic nasopharyngoscopy or electronic laryngoscopy may be performed to determine whether any foreign objects or inflammation are present. Although it is rare for short, stiff hairs to become embedded in the tonsillar fossa or other areas, any detected foreign bodies can be removed using specialized forceps after proper examination.
