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Swallowed a piece of mussel shell, throat hurts to swallow

Posted by pinkcosmos @pinkcosmos, 3 days ago

3 days ago I had a seafood pasta with mussels and I think I accidentally swallowed a piece of broken mussel shell. I’ve had discomfort in the right side of my throat ever since, which hurts more when I swallow, and is accompanied by ear pain on the right ear.
Is it likely the shell has just cut my throat and is making its way through my body, or could it still be stuck? (Would I be in much greater pain if it is stuck?)

do mussel shells break down and digest in the digestive system?

If I had perforated any part of my digestive system, would I know by now?

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Mentor
Lori, Volunteer Mentor | @loribmt | 2 days ago

Hi @pinkcosmos If you’re still experiencing pain and discomfort after 4 days, I’d really suggest getting yourself to an ENT or your PCP for an evaluation. They can take a peek down your throat to see if anything is lodged. I wouldn’t leave this to chance. Do you have a primary care physician?

REPLY
kdalda75 | @kndaustin71 | 2 days ago

Usually mucous tissue heals rather rapidly but if you feel the pain remains the same especially with the extension of pain to the ear, I would at least contact your PCP, then they can refer to ENT if necessary.

REPLY
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