Foreign object aspiration or ingestion

Alternative names:

inhalation of a foreign object; obstructed airway; swallowed foreign object

Definition:

Aspiration - a foreign object is inhaled into the lower respiratory tract, where it may become lodged and cause respiratory problems as well as local inflammation and infection. See also choking.
Ingestion - a foreign object (anything other than food) is swallowed and may either become lodged along or pass through the gastrointestinal (digestive) tract.

Considerations:

Aspiration may occur at any age but is more commonly seen in the 1 to 3 year-old age group.

Causes:

• Certain foods (nuts, seeds, popcorn) and small objects (buttons, beads) may easily be aspirated by young children. Such objects may cause either partial or total airway occlusion.
• Coins, small toys, marbles, pins, screws, rocks, and anything else small enough for infants or toddlers to put in their mouths can be swallowed. If the object passes through the esophagus and into the stomach, without lodging; it will probably pass through the entire digestive tract.