Which department should I visit if I accidentally swallowed loquat seeds?
Jun 05, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Chao
Introduction
Generally, if loquat seeds are accidentally swallowed, one should visit the otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat) department, emergency department, or gastroenterology department. If symptoms such as difficulty breathing or choking occur after ingesting a foreign body, immediate medical attention at the emergency department is required. Emergency physicians can perform urgent interventions, such as endotracheal intubation or tracheotomy, to remove the obstructing object and ensure the patient's airway remains open.
Eating and accidentally swallowing loquat seeds usually requires visiting departments such as otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat), emergency medicine, or gastroenterology. Specific details are as follows:
1. Otolaryngology
After swallowing a foreign object, symptoms such as a sensation of something stuck in the throat or coughing may occur. The otolaryngology department can use examinations like laryngoscopy to determine the location and size of the foreign body and develop an appropriate treatment plan accordingly.
2. Emergency Department
If symptoms such as difficulty breathing or choking occur after swallowing a foreign object, immediate medical attention at the emergency department is necessary. Emergency physicians can perform urgent interventions—such as endotracheal intubation or tracheotomy—to remove the obstruction and ensure the patient's airway remains open.
3. Gastroenterology
If a loquat seed is accidentally swallowed, it may pass through the esophagus into the stomach. If the patient develops symptoms such as indigestion or abdominal pain, they should seek care in the gastroenterology department for further evaluation and treatment.
In addition to the above departments, children may also be seen in pediatric departments. In daily life, it is important to chew food thoroughly and eat slowly to avoid swallowing foreign objects, which could otherwise affect health.
