What is the most effective way to deal with a fish bone stuck in the throat?
Disease description:
I am a 30-year-old male. Tonight, while eating fish, I accidentally got a fish bone stuck in my throat. I feel very uncomfortable in my throat, with obvious pain when swallowing, and slight difficulty breathing. I tried swallowing food to push the fish bone down, but it didn't help. Now I'm very worried and don't know what to do.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lu Cheng
When a fish bone becomes lodged in the throat, the most effective approach is to remain calm and avoid attempting any haphazard remedies. Seeking timely medical attention is the safest option. Attempting to swallow food blindly after a fish bone gets stuck may push the bone deeper, potentially damaging the esophagus and surrounding tissues, leading to more serious consequences. Additionally, folk remedies such as drinking vinegar are unlikely to dissolve the fish bone and may instead irritate the esophageal and gastric mucosa. Without knowing the exact location and size of the fish bone, attempting self-removal poses significant risks. Professional physicians can quickly and accurately locate and remove the fish bone using tools such as a laryngoscope.
If a fish bone becomes stuck in your throat, you should immediately stop eating and drinking to avoid further irritation. Stay calm and try gently coughing, as this may help dislodge the bone. However, if coughing proves ineffective and you experience difficulty breathing or increasing pain, seek immediate medical attention at an otolaryngology (ENT) department. During the trip to the hospital, try to avoid excessive talking and swallowing movements to prevent worsening discomfort. Upon arrival, the doctor will use specialized equipment to examine and remove the fish bone, ensuring your safety.
