Signs of Inhaled foreign body

Description

An inhaled foreign body will become lodged in the trachea or brochus (air tubes of the lung). The symptoms experienced depend on where in the airway the foreign body resides. The larger the breathing tube the more difficulty the patient will have breathing. Smaller foreign bodies may not cause any symptoms initially, but if not removed the foreign body can cause an infection or partial collapse of the lung. Children can inadvertently inhale foreign bodies and have no complaints. Parents must have a high index of suspicion to seek care and establish the diagnosis.

Symptoms

Choking, coughing, noisy upper airway breathing (stridor), inability to breath or speak, chest pain, wheezing. There may be no symptoms initially, but with time fever, and persistent lung infection (pneumonia).

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Imaging studies and/or direct visualization with a bronchoscope will be performed.

Standard Workup

X-Ray
MRI
CT Scan

Treatment

Children with a susected inhaled foreign body require evaluation by a healthcare provider. Treatment involves improving the breathing with oxygen and an artificial airway, intubation or tracheotomy if necessary. Removal of the foreign body is achieved with a a fiber optic camera directed into the airway (bronchoscopy). Rarely surgery is required. Antibiotics will be administered if an infection is present.