In children, while peanuts are the most commonly aspirated food, hot dogs are the most common fatally aspirated food. Children also aspirate or choke on many non-food items. Airway obstruction from aspirated balloon fragments, buttons, coins and small toys is common. The classical example is allergic reactions to bee stings which frequently cause anaphylactic reactions. A rapidly expanding abscess can block the airway and cause respiratory distress.
Prevention is dependent on the cause of the upper airway obstruction .
See the individual diseases in the above section for more information. Tests are usually not necessary, but may include a chest X-ray , bronchoscopy , or blood gas analysis. Treatment depends on the cause of the blockage. Aspirated objects may be able to be removed with bronchoscopy . Prompt treatment is often successful.