- Definition: Inhalation (aspiration) of an object into the airway (trachea or bronchial tree), commonly seen in children under 5.
- Peak Age: 1 to 3 years (due to exploration, immature chewing, and lack of molars).
⚠️ Common Foreign Bodies
- Peanuts, seeds, popcorn, coins, small toys, beads, pen caps.
???? Signs & Symptoms
- Acute episode: Sudden choking, coughing, gagging.
- Later signs:
- Persistent cough
- Wheezing (often unilateral)
- Stridor
- Decreased breath sounds
- Recurrent pneumonia or localized lung collapse
???? Diagnosis
- Clinical history is key (witnessed choking episode).
- Imaging:
- Chest X-ray (may show air trapping, hyperinflation, or atelectasis)
- Lateral decubitus or inspiratory/expiratory films
- CT scan or bronchoscopy (definitive)
????️ Management
- Emergency response:
- If child is choking and unable to breathe:
- Back blows & chest thrusts (infants)
- Heimlich maneuver (older children)
- If child is choking and unable to breathe:
- Bronchoscopy (rigid preferred in children): Diagnostic and therapeutic
- Antibiotics: If secondary infection is present
- Observation post-removal for complications (e.g., edema, infection)
????⚕️ Prevention Tips
- Avoid giving small har
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