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Foreign Object Swallowed: First Aid
By Matt Unangst, 04 Mar 13:39
Most objects that you swallow will pass through your body without causing any problems, but they can sometimes get stuck in your esophagus. An object stuck in the esophagus can cause problems and may have to be removed.
Some foreign objects are more dangerous than others and should be removed immediately before they can cause further damage. Pointed objects can cut or puncture the esophageal lining, a possibly serious injury, so they should be removed quickly. The same goes for the small batteries used in calculators and watches, which can cause severe injury to the tissue around them while in the esophagus.
Foreign objects that block the airway should be forced out of the body using the “five and five” method. Begin by hitting the person who cannot breathe between the shoulder blades five times with the heel of your hand. Then perform five thrusts using the Heimlich maneuver. Alternate between these two techniques until the person is able to breathe properly again.
To perform the Heimlich maneuver on another person, stand behind the person and tip him/her slightly forward. Wrap your arms around the waist of the person. Form one of your hands into a fist and place the fist just above the person’s navel. Grab the first with your other hand and thrust upwards into the abdomen hard and quickly, as though you were trying to lift the person.
You may have to perform the Heimlich maneuver on yourself. Begin by forming a fist and placing it just above your navel. Grab the first with your other hand and bend over a hard surface, such as a countertop, to provide leverage for an upward thrust.
Perform the five and five first aid before calling for medical attention if you are the only person around to help. If you are not the only person, have someone else call 911 while you perform first aid.
Tags: first aid, swallowing, foreign object