Overview
When your child swallows food, liquid, or an object, it passes from the mouth and goes down the throat and esophagus and into the stomach. But sometimes these things can get stuck in the throat or esophagus. This may make your child choke, cough, or gag. Some objects can cause more problems than others. Sharp, long, or large objects can scratch or cut the throat, the esophagus, and the stomach if they get stuck or if they are swallowed. When this happens, these areas can bleed or get infected.
If the object was stuck in your child's throat or esophagus, your doctor probably removed it. If your child swallowed the object, your doctor may have suggested that you wait and see if the object comes out in your child's stool. Most swallowed objects will pass through the body without any problem and show up in your child's stool within a few days. If the object does not show up in the stool within 7 days, the doctor may order tests to find out where it is in your child's body.
Your child's throat may feel sore after an object has been removed or a swallowed object has scratched the throat. It may hurt for a few days when your child eats or swallows. The scratch itself may make it feel as if something is still stuck in the throat.
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter I635 in the search box to learn more about "Object in a Child's Throat or Esophagus: Care Instructions".