Obstructed airway

Alternative names

Swallowing or inhaling a foreign object; Inhaling a foreign object

Definition

If a foreign object is inhaled into the respiratory tract, it may become lodged and cause respiratory problems, as well as inflammation and infection. See also choking.

If swallowed, a foreign object may become lodged along the gastrointestinal (digestive) tract, or pass through.

Considerations

These injuries can occur at any age, but are most common in 1 to 3 year-olds.

Causes

• Certain foods (nuts, seeds, popcorn) and small objects (buttons, beads) are easily inhaled by young children. Such objects may cause either partial or total airway blockage.
  
• Coins, small toys, marbles, pins, screws, rocks, and anything else small enough for infants or toddlers to put in their mouths can be swallowed. If the object passes through the esophagus and into the stomach without lodging, it will probably pass through the entire digestive tract.
  

Symptoms
Tiny foreign objects that have been inhaled are usually noticed immediately with coughing, wheezing, breathing distress, or total lack of air. However, it may cause only minimal symptoms initially, and be forgotten until later symptoms develop that are related to inflammation or infection.

First Aid

FOR INHALED OBJECT

Any child who may have inhaled an object should be evaluated by a doctor. Children with obvious breathing distress may require emergency measures for total airway blockage.

If choking or coughing subsides, and the child does not have any other symptoms, he or she may be monitored for signs and symptoms of respiratory infection or irritation. X-rays may be helpful for diagnosis.

Bronchoscopy may be necessary for definitive diagnosis as well as removal of the object. Antibiotics may be used and respiratory therapy techniques if infection develops.

FOR SWALLOWED OBJECT

Any child who is believed to have swallowed a foreign object should be observed for pain, fever, vomiting, or local tenderness. Stools (bowel movements) should be examined to detect the passage of the foreign object.

Even sharp objects (such as pins and screws) usually pass through the GI tract without complications. X-ray examination is occasionally necessary, especially if the child demonstrates symptoms of distress or the object does not pass within 4 to 5 days.