Swallowing a chicken bone is a common occurrence, especially in countries where chicken is a popular food. In most cases, the chicken bone will pass through the digestive system without causing any harm. However, in some cases, swallowing a chicken bone can lead to medical complications that require medical attention. In this article, we will discuss the medical complications of swallowing a chicken bone and what you should do if you experience any of these complications.
The Anatomy of Swallowing
Before discussing the medical complications of swallowing a chicken bone, it is essential to understand the anatomy of swallowing. Swallowing is a complex process that involves the mouth, throat, and esophagus. When you swallow, the food or liquid passes through the mouth and into the pharynx, which is the space at the back of the throat. From there, it passes into the esophagus, which is the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach.
The esophagus has a ring of muscles at the bottom called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES opens to allow food and liquid to pass into the stomach and then closes to prevent stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus. Swallowing is a coordinated process that involves the muscles of the mouth, throat, and esophagus.
Medical Complications of Swallowing a Chicken Bone
Swallowing a chicken bone can cause a range of medical complications, depending on where the bone becomes lodged and how deeply it penetrates the tissue. Some of the most common complications of swallowing a chicken bone include:
1. Perforation of the Esophagus
One of the most serious complications of swallowing a chicken bone is the perforation of the esophagus. This occurs when the bone punctures the lining of the esophagus and can lead to a range of complications, including infection, bleeding, and even death. Symptoms of esophageal perforation can include chest pain, difficulty swallowing, fever, and shortness of breath.
2. Choking
If a chicken bone becomes lodged in the throat, it can cause choking. Choking occurs when a foreign object blocks the airway, making it difficult or impossible to breathe. If choking occurs, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention.
3. Obstruction of the Bowel
In some cases, a chicken bone that is swallowed can become lodged in the intestines, causing an obstruction. Symptoms of bowel obstruction can include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and constipation. If left untreated, a bowel obstruction can lead to more serious complications, such as bowel perforation and sepsis.
4. Perforation of the Stomach or Intestines
In rare cases, a chicken bone that is swallowed can puncture the stomach or intestines, leading to serious complications. Symptoms of stomach or intestinal perforation can include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
5. Infection
If a chicken bone becomes lodged in the esophagus or digestive tract, it can lead to infection. Symptoms of the infection can include fever, chills, abdominal pain, and nausea.
6. Damage to the Teeth and Mouth
In some cases, a chicken bone that is swallowed can cause damage to the teeth and mouth. This can occur if the bone is sharp or jagged and cuts the inside of the mouth or throat. Symptoms can include bleeding, pain, and swelling.
Treatment of Swallowed Chicken Bone
If you believe that you have swallowed a chicken bone and are experiencing symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Depending on the location and severity of the complication, treatment may include:
1. Endoscopy
Endoscopy is a medical procedure in which a flexible tube with a camera attached is inserted into the esophagus, stomach, or intestines to locate and remove the chicken bone. Endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that can be done on an outpatient basis.
2. Surgery
In more severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the chicken bone. This is typically only necessary if the bone has caused a perforation or obstruction that cannot be resolved with endoscopy.
3. Antibiotics
If the chicken bone has caused an infection, antibiotics may be necessary to treat the infection and prevent further complications.
4. Pain Management
In some cases, pain medication may be prescribed to manage pain caused by a lodged chicken bone or complications resulting from the bone.
Prevention of Swallowed Chicken Bone
The best way to prevent swallowing a chicken bone is to take precautions when eating chicken. This includes:
1. Chewing thoroughly
Make sure to chew your food thoroughly, especially when eating chicken. This will help prevent large pieces of bone from becoming lodged in your throat or digestive tract.
2. Cutting the chicken carefully
When cutting chicken, be sure to remove any bones that may be visible. If you are unsure, use a fork or your fingers to feel for any bones that may still be attached.
3. Avoiding eating bones altogether
If you prefer not to eat chicken bones, consider purchasing boneless chicken or removing the bones before cooking.
Conclusion
Swallowing a chicken bone can lead to a range of medical complications, including perforation of the esophagus or stomach, choking, bowel obstruction, infection, and damage to the teeth and mouth. If you believe that you have swallowed a chicken bone and are experiencing symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Treatment may include endoscopy, surgery, antibiotics, or pain management. To prevent swallowing a chicken bone, be sure to chew your food thoroughly, cut the chicken carefully, and consider avoiding bones altogether. Dr. A. Arrazaghi. MD,FRCPC