What Are The Repercussions Of The Accidental Ingestion A Foreign Object?

Posted on Thu, 13 Oct 2016

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

Thu, 13 Oct 2016 Answered on

Fri, 4 Nov 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi,
Today I swallowed a chip that went down the wrong pipe. I eventually coughed out a piece of the chip, but after it felt like I still had some down there. Now, 8 hours later it feels like something in the back of my trachea, not something that swallowing would help sooth. Just wondering if I should be worried if there is still a potato chip down there or if it is scratched and that's why it is bothering me.

Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Probably related to irritation. No chip is still there!

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Am sorry to hear about this difficulty swallowing. i have reviewed this information fully and feel convinced that there is no longer any chip in the trachea/throat. If there were to be even a tiny piece, you would could incessantly until you get it off. This isn't what you are experiencing. The symptoms are probably most related to symptoms of irritation following the missed route of the potato chip.

There is nothing to worry about at this time. All will soon return to normal without the need for further medical intervention. I wish you well and keep me updated.

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