Foreign bodies in the wound / eye / windpipe / esophagus
Wound
If a larger foreign body penetrates the body and stays there, this should generally be removed by a physician. As the depth and severity of an injury cannot be judged from the outside, foreign bodies may not be removed by injured persons themselves. Blood vessels, nerves or even organs may be damaged. These internal injuries must be medically treated immediately upon removing the foreign body. If a foreign body is projecting from the wound, this should be secured and wrapped for transport of the injured person.
Eye
Foreign bodies such as dust or soot on the surface of the eyeball can be removed by rinsing the eye out with water (from the tap). You can carefully wipe out individual particles of dust or insects with the corner of a clean tissue in the direction of the nose.
If there are other foreign bodies in the eyeball, such as fragments of metal, bandage up both eyes – even the one that is not injured. Go immediately to an eye specialist! Never try to pull out the object yourself. Avoid manipulating the eye, i.e. do not wipe or rub.
Windpipe
Foreign bodies in the windpipe mean a risk of suffocation. Act immediately!
Foreign bodies in the windpipe cause extreme tickling in the throat; if stuck in the windpipe, they cause a whooping, whistling noise. There is then a risk of suffocation and something needs to be done immediately! With the upper body hanging down, vigorous pats on the back with a flat hand between the shoulder blades can be used to trigger coughing, which will transport the foreign body back outwards. Hold small children by the feet and let their head hang down. If unsuccessful: call the emergency doctor!!
Esophagus
Foreign bodies in the esophagus bring about difficulty in swallowing and pain. First aid consists in this case of getting the person affected to retch and vomit. If unsuccessful or if a sharp object has got stuck in the esophagus, a physician must be seen immediately. If the object is swallowed entirely, it should be observed to see if it reappears by natural means.
