Summary

• Inhalation of a foreign body into the larynx and respiratory tract.
• Symptoms include sudden onset of respiratory distress associated with coughing, gagging, or stridor. Unilateral wheezing suggests partial obstruction of the main or distal bronchi.
• Major causes of foreign body aspiration are altered mental status from alcohol or sedative use; seizure; neurological disorders; trauma associated with a decreased level of consciousness; dental procedures; advanced or young age; disorders associated with dysphagia and impaired cough reflex.
• Flexible bronchoscopy confirms suspected cases of foreign body aspiration and can be used to attempt removal of the foreign body. Rigid bronchoscopy is performed if flexible bronchoscopy fails.