What should I do if a fish bone is stuck in my throat?
Disease description:
My child likes to eat fish, but has gotten fish bones stuck in the throat several times. I would like to ask, what is the usual treatment if a fish bone becomes lodged?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lu Cheng
Fish bones stuck in the throat are a common situation that can potentially cause serious problems. When this occurs, the following steps should be taken:
1. Stay calm: It is very important to remain calm. Excessive panic may lead to improper swallowing movements, pushing the fish bone deeper into the throat or esophagus.
2. Assess the situation: Try to determine the approximate location and size of the fish bone. If the bone is small and located near the surface, it may sometimes be expelled by gently coughing. However, if the fish bone is large or deeply embedded, do not attempt to remove it yourself, as this may cause further injury.
3. Avoid improper methods: Do not attempt to swallow food such as bread or rice to push the bone down, nor is it advisable to rinse with vinegar or other liquids. These methods are not only ineffective but may cause the fish bone to embed deeper into the tissue, increasing the difficulty and risk of removal.
4. Seek medical advice: Seek immediate medical assistance. Go to the nearest hospital emergency department or contact an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. Doctors will use specialized instruments to safely and painlessly remove the fish bone under local anesthesia.
