Foreign body in alimentary tract digital illustration

Foreign body in alimentary tract Save


ICD-10 code: T18

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

Foreign body in alimentary tract

Foreign bodies in the alimentary tract are a common occurrence that can happen to anyone. A foreign body is any object that is not supposed to be in the alimentary tract, such as bones, coins, toys, or even small pieces of food. The alimentary tract includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and intestines.

Foreign bodies in the alimentary tract can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on the location of the object and its size. Some foreign bodies may pass through the digestive system without any problems, while others may cause serious complications.

Causes of foreign bodies in alimentary tract

Foreign bodies in the alimentary tract can be caused by a number of factors, including:

  1. Accidental ingestion of foreign objects, especially in children
  2. Swallowing of bones or other hard food items
  3. Intentional ingestion of objects in people with eating disorders or mental health conditions
Symptoms of foreign bodies in alimentary tract

Symptoms of foreign bodies in the alimentary tract may include:

  • Pain in the abdomen
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Bleeding from the mouth or rectum
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Perforation of the alimentary tract
Treatment of foreign bodies in alimentary tract

The treatment of foreign bodies in the alimentary tract depends on the size and location of the object and the severity of the symptoms. In many cases, the object will pass through the digestive system on its own without any intervention.

If the object is causing significant pain or other symptoms, it may need to be removed endoscopically or surgically. In some cases, medication may be used to help the object pass through the digestive system more easily.

Prevention is the best way to avoid foreign bodies in the alimentary tract. This can be done by keeping small objects out of reach of children, chewing food carefully, and avoiding eating while distracted or under the influence of alcohol.

If you suspect that you or someone else has ingested a foreign body, seek medical attention immediately. Early treatment can prevent serious complications and improve the chances of a full recovery.

Diagnosis Codes for Foreign body in alimentary tract | T18

Not Available