First Aid For
Swallowing a Foreign Object

If you swallowed a foreign object it's possible for the object to get stuck in the respiratory tract. This can cause coughing, wheezing, trouble breathing and choking.
But most swallowed objects pass right through the digestive tract with little or no complications.

Even though it's not common for an adult to swallow foreign objects--it can happen. Bottle caps, coins, jewelry, dental fillings and sometimes, knocked out teeth.

You will need the free software program Adobe Reader to view these files. You can download that here.

First Aid Treatment

• When you realize that you have swallowed an object, see a doctor
• If the object becomes lodged in the throat and there are signs that you are choking it may be necessary to perform the Heimlich Maneuver
• If the object passes into the stomach, watch for signs of fever, vomiting, coughing and local tenderness. The stool will need to be examined to detect the passage of the object
• Even sharp objects usually pass thru the digestive tract without doing any harm. Occasionally x-rays may be necessary if the object has not passed in 4 to 5 days