Finding yourself in a situation where a fish bone or any foreign object gets lodged in your throat can be distressing, but it’s important to remain calm and take appropriate actions to ensure your safety. Here are steps you can take to dislodge the fish bone and potentially save your life:
- Stay Calm: Panicking can make it harder to think clearly and act effectively. Take a few deep breaths to calm yourself down.
- Cough: Try to cough forcefully to dislodge the fish bone. Sometimes, a strong cough can push the bone out of your throat.
- Drink Water: Taking sips of water can help lubricate your throat and may aid in moving the fish bone. Avoid large gulps, as they could cause the bone to move further down.
- Eat Soft Foods: If the fish bone is small and not causing severe discomfort, eating soft foods like bread or rice may help push it down your throat.
- Gargle: Gargling with salt water or drinking warm liquids like tea can help soothe your throat and may assist in dislodging the bone.
- Try the “Coca-Cola” Method: Some people swear by drinking carbonated beverages like Coca-Cola to dissolve the fish bone. The carbonation and acidity of the soda may help break down the bone.
- Seek Medical Assistance: If the fish bone remains stuck or if you experience severe pain, difficulty breathing, or persistent coughing, seek medical help immediately. Do not attempt to remove the bone yourself, as this could cause further injury or complications.
- Visit the Emergency Room: If attempts to dislodge the fish bone at home are unsuccessful, go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care center. Healthcare professionals have the tools and expertise to safely remove the bone and provide any necessary treatment.
Remember, prevention is key to avoiding such situations in the future. When eating fish, be sure to remove any bones beforehand, or opt for boneless fillets to reduce the risk of choking.
https://www.healthline.com/health/fish-bone-stuck-in-throat