A recent case at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi highlights the potential dangers of consuming foreign objects in drinks. A 20-year-old girl choked on tapioca pearls after drinking milk tea, leading to a severe cough, difficulty breathing, blue lips, and an endoscopy revealing pearl beads in her right bronchus.
Dr. Nguyen Van Ngan from the hospital warns that toppings in drinks can increase the risk of choking on foreign objects in the airways. These toppings are often granular and made of powder, with a sticky texture like tapioca pearls, jelly or coconut jelly, which are commonly consumed through large straws. Dr. Ngan advises against sucking too hard as this can push the topping into the airway, causing coughing and difficulty expelling it due to its sticky texture.
Choking on foreign objects is more common among young children who may not have the knowledge or reflexes to prevent it. To reduce this risk, children should eat toppings with a spoon rather than a large straw, chew slowly and not play while eating. They should also be supervised by adults during meals and their food cut into smaller portions.
If choking occurs on a foreign object, prompt first aid is essential to expel it from the airway and prevent respiratory failure or death. The Heimlich maneuver can be used for adults and children over two years old while younger children may require back patting and chest compressions to dislodge it. Seeking medical attention is critical even if the object has been removed.
In conclusion, it’s crucial to be aware of potential choking hazards when consuming drinks with various toppings made of granular powder or sticky substances like tapioca pearls or jelly. By following safety guidelines such as eating slowly with a spoon and avoiding excessive suction through straws, we can reduce the risk of choking on foreign objects in our airways.
It’s also important for parents and caregivers to supervise young children during meals and ensure they are aware of potential dangers associated with consuming foreign objects in their drinks. With proper first aid knowledge and timely intervention, we can prevent respiratory failure or death caused by choking on foreign objects in our airways.
Therefore, being aware of potential dangers associated with consuming foreign objects in drinks is essential for our safety while enjoying our favorite beverages.