Swallowed or Inhaled Objects

The following home treatment may help relieve discomfort after you swallow or inhale an object.

• Do not cause (induce) vomiting unless your doctor or the poison control center specifically instructs you to do so. Vomiting could cause you to inhale (Reference aspirate) the object into your windpipe or lungs.
• Drink liquids. If swallowing liquids is easy, try eating soft bread or a banana. If eating soft bread or a banana is easy, try adding other foods. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help move the swallowed object through the digestive tract.
  • Continue to drink more liquids until the object has passed in your stool. Extra fluid will help the object move through the digestive tract. The object should pass within 7 days.
  • Watch your stools to see if the object has passed. Do not use a Reference laxative unless your doctor tells you to.

Symptoms to watch for during home treatment

Reference Call your doctor if any of the following occur during home treatment:

• New symptoms develop, such as:
  • Shortness of breath, wheezing, or coughing.
  • Pain in the throat, chest, or belly.
  • Vomiting, especially vomit that contains blood.
  • Blood in the stool, such as red, black, or Reference tarry Opens New Window stools.
• The swallowed object does not pass in the stool in 7 days.
• Your symptoms become more severe or more frequent.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.