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Foreign Body Aspiration in Children

Foreign body entering the airway is one of the fatal childhood emergencies.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Foreign Body Aspiration in Children?

Foreign body aspiration in children occurs when an object enters the respiratory tract. The most commonly aspirated objects are peanuts, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, chickpeas, small toy parts, and batteries.

Clinically evaluated in three phases: initial cough and wheezing phase, latent phase that becomes silent when the object lodges, and late phase where complications (pneumonia, atelectasis) develop. The latent phase may delay diagnosis.

History (sudden cough attack, 'as if choking'), asymmetric lung sounds, and aeration difference on chest X-ray are important in diagnosis. Definitive diagnosis and treatment are provided by rigid bronchoscopy.

Symptoms

Sudden cough attack and choking sensation
Wheezing and stridor
Decreased unilateral breath sounds
Cyanosis
History of recurrent pneumonia
Sudden onset of complaint during eating

Risk Factors

Childhood between 1-3 years
Hard foods (peanuts, nuts)
Small toy parts and batteries
Crying or running while eating
Lack of adult supervision
Developmental delay

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When a child has sudden cough attack and choking sensation
  • Wheezing and decreased unilateral breathing
  • When recurrent pneumonia in the same area is described
  • In unexplained chronic cough
  • Suspected battery or small object swallowing/aspiration

Treatment Methods

01
Heimlich maneuver (symptomatic child)
02
Securing airway
03
Object removal with rigid bronchoscopy
04
Oxygen and antibiotics (in presence of complications)
05
Family education and prevention
06
Emergency bronchoscopy for high-risk objects (battery)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.