How To Dislodge Chewing Gum Stuck In The Food Pipe?

Posted on Tue, 14 Jul 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 14 Jul 2015 Answered on

Tue, 4 Aug 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I am not sure if I inhaled gum ir swallowed it. I sucked in a breath and felt it in the back of my throat. I didnt have a coughing fit. bit feels like something is stuck.

Answered by Dr. Suresh Heijebu (23 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Possible Gum obstruction in the food pipe.

Detailed Answer:
Hi Mam,

I understand your concern.

It could be gum stuck in the food pipe.

Since you don't have any Acute chest symptoms ,the possibility of inhaled gum can be ruled out provisionally.

I advise you to get an Upper GI Endoscopy to trace its location and aid in its removal.

Post your further queries if any,

Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Suresh Heijebu (9 minutes later)

ok as i am not having trouble breathing or coughing and can eat and drink dont worry about!

Answered by Dr. Suresh Heijebu (23 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Nil by mouth is advisable until evaluation.

Detailed Answer:
Hi Mam,

Normally Nil by mouth would be the rule in any case of food pipe obstruction.

Food may aggravate the symptoms or push the gum still lower.

Early evaluation will be a safer option.

Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar