Food in respiratory tract, part unspecified causing asphyxiation Save
ICD-10 code: T17.920
Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes
Food in Respiratory Tract, Part Unspecified Causing Asphyxiation: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Asphyxiation is a medical emergency that occurs when a person's airway is blocked, preventing them from breathing. One of the most common causes of asphyxiation is food in the respiratory tract. This can happen when food is not chewed properly or when a person tries to talk, laugh, or swallow food while eating. The food can then become stuck in the airway, making it difficult or impossible to breathe.
The symptoms of asphyxiation caused by food in the respiratory tract can vary depending on the severity of the blockage. Mild cases may cause coughing, wheezing, or a feeling of tightness in the chest. More severe cases can lead to difficulty breathing, blue lips or skin, loss of consciousness, and even death.
Causes of Asphyxiation
- Food not chewed properly
- Talking, laughing, or swallowing food while eating
- Drinking alcohol or using drugs
- Being under the influence of medication that causes drowsiness or loss of coordination
- Medical conditions that affect the airway, such as asthma, allergies, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Foreign objects in the airway, such as toys or small parts
Symptoms of Asphyxiation
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Tightness in the chest
- Difficulty breathing
- Bluish lips or skin
- Loss of consciousness
Treatment for Asphyxiation
If you or someone you know is experiencing asphyxiation, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Call for an ambulance or go to the emergency department. Treatment may include:
- Heimlich maneuver
- Intubation to open the airway
- Removal of the object causing the blockage
- Oxygen therapy
- Medication to relax the airway muscles
Asphyxiation caused by food in the respiratory tract can be a serious medical emergency. It is important to take steps to prevent it from happening, such as chewing food properly, avoiding talking or laughing while eating, and seeking medical attention if symptoms occur. By being aware of the causes, symptoms, and treatment for asphy