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Is Accidental Ingestion Of An Insect A Cause For Concern?

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Posted on Tue, 3 Oct 2017
Question: Is accidentally ingesting a bug cause physical harm or any physical changes to you?Bug or insect
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Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Physical harm unlikely

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.

I have gone carefully through your query and understand your concerns. On ingesting an insect suddenly there are two broad possibilities to consider. The first is that the bug gets suffocated and dies off. In such a case it is unlikely that it would cause physical harm. The second possibility is that the bug struggles and bites you in the process. In such a case you can get some allergic reactions. If the insect bites you would definitely know (as you would feel the sting). In any case, the insect will still die soon. Overall, apart from the bites there is hardly anything to worry about.

Nevertheless, in case you develop any adverse symptoms or unexplained symptoms you would need to visit the ER at the earliest.

Let me know if I could help further.

Regards
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1954

Answered : 4467 Questions

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Is Accidental Ingestion Of An Insect A Cause For Concern?

Brief Answer: Physical harm unlikely Detailed Answer: Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic. I have gone carefully through your query and understand your concerns. On ingesting an insect suddenly there are two broad possibilities to consider. The first is that the bug gets suffocated and dies off. In such a case it is unlikely that it would cause physical harm. The second possibility is that the bug struggles and bites you in the process. In such a case you can get some allergic reactions. If the insect bites you would definitely know (as you would feel the sting). In any case, the insect will still die soon. Overall, apart from the bites there is hardly anything to worry about. Nevertheless, in case you develop any adverse symptoms or unexplained symptoms you would need to visit the ER at the earliest. Let me know if I could help further. Regards