A recent incident at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi has brought attention to the choking hazard posed by pearls and jelly. A 20-year-old girl who had drunk milk tea with tapioca pearls choked on them, leading to a severe cough, difficulty breathing, blue lips, and an endoscopy that revealed pearl beads in her right bronchus.
Dr. Nguyen Van Ngan from Tam Anh General Hospital warns that drinks served with various toppings can increase the risk of choking on foreign objects in the airways. Toppings in drinks are often granular, made of powder, and have a sticky texture like tapioca pearls, jelly, or coconut jelly. These toppings are commonly eaten through large straws, which can push the topping into the airway when sucked too hard. Dr. Ngan advises against sucking too hard and recommends eating toppings with a spoon rather than a large straw, chewing slowly, and not playing while eating.
Choking on foreign objects is more common in young children who may not have the knowledge or reflexes to prevent it. To reduce the risk of choking, it is recommended that children eat toppings with a spoon rather than a large straw, chew slowly, and not play while eating. Children should also be supervised by adults during meals and their food should be cut into smaller portions.
If choking on a foreign object occurs, prompt first aid should be administered immediately to expel the object 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 the object. Seeking medical attention is essential even if the object has been removed.
In conclusion, consuming drinks with granular or powdery toppings such as tapioca pearls or jelly can pose a significant risk of choking on foreign objects in the airways. It’s crucial for individuals of all ages to exercise caution when consuming these types of drinks and take necessary precautions such as eating them with a spoon instead of a large straw and avoiding playing while eating.
Furthermore, parents should supervise their children during meals and ensure they consume these foods in moderation while cutting them into smaller portions.
Lastly, if you experience any signs of choking on foreign objects seek immediate medical attention as prompt first aid can save lives!
