Foreign Body Aspiration

Foreign Body Aspiration

Foreign Body Aspiration is a condition where a person accidentally inhales an object into the airway.

Why are toddlers at increased risk of foreign body aspiration?

Toddler airway is still developing and maturing. The swallowing skills are still immature.

They do not have molar teeth that help chewing the food and hence, tend to gulp down big chunks without chewing that can get stuck in the throat.

Toddlers try to explore everything with their mouths and tongues. They have a habit of putting every object that interests them in their mouth and thus are at an increased risk of choking especially if they are left unsupervised.
Toddlers also are always on the go. Jumping, running, laughing, crying with small onjects in mouth increases the risk of aspiration.

What are the clinical indicators of foreign body aspiration?

Children with an episode of choking are at an increased risk of foreign body aspiration especially if that object has not come out by patting the back or performing the Heimlisch maneuver.

Children often have the following symptoms:

Persistent cough

Noisy breathing or stridor

Persistent wheeze in chest

Whistling sounds coming from the chest

Fast breathing or even hypoxia

Can Foreign Body aspiration have long-term implications?

Foreign bodies must be removed from the airway at the earliest. Sometimes foreign body may be retained in the airway especially when choking episode goes unnoticed. Retained foreign bodies can cause the following problems in the airway

Pneumonia

Persistent lung collapse that can lead to bronchiactasis and lung damage

Sharp objects can puncture the lung and lead to pnuemothorax or persistnet air leaks

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I know if my child has aspirated a foreign body?

Look for signs like persistent coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, or a sudden choking episode. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Is flexible bronchoscopy painful for my child?

No, flexible bronchoscopy is performed under sedation or anesthesia, so your child will not feel pain during the procedure. They may experience mild discomfort or a sore throat afterward, but recovery is typically quick.

What types of foreign bodies are most commonly aspirated by children?

Common foreign bodies include food items (e.g., nuts, seeds, and popcorn), small toys, beads, and even parts of household items like buttons or pens.

Can foreign body aspiration lead to long-term damage?

If treated promptly, most children recover without long-term issues. However, if left untreated, aspiration can lead to complications such as pneumonia, lung collapse, or chronic respiratory problems.