What should I do if a fish bone is stuck in my throat and cannot be removed?
Mar 09, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Yanzhi
Introduction
Smaller fish bones may sometimes pass naturally during swallowing. If you feel pain, use a flashlight to illuminate the oropharynx and gently depress the dorsum of the tongue with a small spoon. Carefully examine the fauces—particularly the bilateral entrances to the laryngopharynx—as this is where fish bones most commonly become lodged. If the bone is small and superficially embedded, it can be removed using long forceps.
While eating fish, some children may accidentally get a fish bone stuck in their throat—unable to cough it up or swallow it down. So what should you do if a fish bone remains lodged in the throat and cannot be removed? Below, we address this question.
What to Do If a Fish Bone Remains Lodged in the Throat
Small fish bones may sometimes pass naturally during swallowing. If you experience sharp pain, use a flashlight to illuminate the oropharynx; gently depress the dorsum of the tongue with a small spoon and carefully inspect the pharyngeal isthmus—particularly the lateral sides of the laryngeal inlet—as these are the most common sites where fish bones become lodged. If the bone is small and superficially embedded, it may be safely removed using long, fine-tipped forceps.
Larger or deeply embedded fish bones—especially those causing persistent pain regardless of swallowing attempts—and those not visible upon thorough inspection of the laryngeal inlet and surrounding areas require prompt medical evaluation and professional removal at a hospital.
When a fish bone is stuck in the throat, never instruct the patient to swallow large bites of steamed buns, pancakes, or other bulky foods. Although this method occasionally dislodges the bone, it more often pushes the bone deeper into the tissue, making removal more difficult—and potentially leading to serious complications such as infection or inflammation.
If swallowing large mouthfuls of rice or bread fails to dislodge the bone, stop attempting self-removal and observe for a short period. Should discomfort persist—or worsen—seek immediate medical attention from a qualified physician. This is the safest and most appropriate course of action for fish bone impaction.
The above outlines key steps to take when a fish bone remains lodged in the throat and cannot be removed. We hope this information proves helpful.
