Other foreign object in trachea causing other injury digital illustration

Other foreign object in trachea causing other injury Save


ICD-10 code: T17.498

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

What to do if you have a foreign object in your trachea?

Having a foreign object in your trachea can be a scary experience. It can cause choking, difficulty breathing, and even injury to your airway. While most cases of foreign object aspiration occur in children, adults can also be at risk.

If you believe you have a foreign object in your trachea, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. In some cases, the object may become dislodged on its own, but it is best not to take any chances.

Causes of foreign object aspiration

Foreign object aspiration occurs when an object enters the trachea instead of the esophagus. This can happen accidentally when an object is inhaled or swallowed incorrectly. Common objects that can cause aspiration include food, toys, and small household items.

In some cases, foreign object aspiration can be caused by underlying medical conditions such as neurological disorders or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Symptoms of foreign object aspiration

The symptoms of foreign object aspiration can vary depending on the size and location of the object in the trachea. Common symptoms include choking, coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. In more severe cases, the object can cause injury to the airway and lead to infection or pneumonia.

Treatment for foreign object aspiration

When seeking medical attention for foreign object aspiration, your doctor will likely perform a physical exam and may order imaging tests such as an X-ray or CT scan. Treatment options will depend on the size and location of the object in the trachea.

  1. Coughing: In some cases, the object may be dislodged by coughing. Your doctor may encourage coughing or use techniques to help you cough more effectively.
  2. Endoscopy: If the object is still lodged in the trachea, your doctor may perform an endoscopy to remove it. This involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the airway to locate and remove the object.
  3. Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the object from the trachea. This is typically only necessary if the object is large or has caused significant injury to the airway.
Preventing foreign object aspiration

While foreign object aspiration can happen to anyone, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include:

  1. Supervising young children: Children are at a higher risk for foreign object aspiration, so it is important to closely supervise young children when they