I inhaled a sunflower seed shell. I induced vomiting and coughing but Im not sure if it was dislodged. My breathing is not obstructed but I am concerned the foreign object might still be in my lungs. I dont feel much discomfort other than some pain when breathing deeply. Do I need to go to the ER or can I wait to see if I feel better tomorrow?
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. You are afraid about aspiration of foreign body (sunflower seed) in the lungs. If this had happened, you must be having continuous cough, chest pain, breathing difficulty etc. Since all these symptoms are absent, I don't think you have aspirated sunflower seed. So no need to rush to the hospital. You can wait for 1-2 days. If during this period you develop constant chest pain, continuous coughing and breathlessness then immediately consult pulmonologist and get done bronchoscopy. Bronchoscopy is not only diagnostic but therapeutic also. If there is seed then through bronchoscope it cannot be removed. So at present, no need to worry much. Just relax and calm. If worsening symptoms are there then consult pulmonologist. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.