Can swallowed food enter the trachea?
Disease description:
My child eats very quickly, always gulping down food in large bites, and often chokes. I'm worried that he might swallow food into his trachea while eating. I would like to ask, is it possible for food to be swallowed into the trachea?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ren Yi
When swallowing food, it usually does not easily enter the trachea.
Once food enters the mouth, it triggers the swallowing reflex. The larynx elevates, causing the epiglottis to cover the opening of the trachea, thereby sealing it off and preventing food from entering the airway. This process is a natural physiological response of the human body.
However, in certain special circumstances, such as the presence of swallowing disorders, neuromuscular control problems, eating too quickly, or talking while eating, food may occasionally enter the trachea. In such cases, patients may experience symptoms such as coughing and difficulty breathing, and severe incidents could potentially be life-threatening.
Therefore, to prevent food from entering the trachea, it is recommended to develop the habit of chewing food thoroughly and eating slowly, avoiding eating too quickly or talking while eating. Special attention and care should be given to high-risk individuals, such as the elderly, children, and patients with swallowing difficulties, to ensure safe eating practices.
