W79: Inhalation and ingestion of food causing obstruction of respiratory tract

Inhalation and ingestion of food causing obstruction of the respiratory tract, as the name suggests, refers to a group of conditions caused by the accidental intake of food particles into the airway instead of the esophagus. It’s a significant problem especially among young children, the elderly, and people with certain neurological conditions. When large particles of food are ingested, they might get lodged in the throat or the windpipe, causing a partial or complete blockage. This can lead to coughing, gagging, difficulty in breathing, sensation of something being stuck in your throat or neck, voice changes, and in severe cases, bluish coloration of the skin, lips, and fingernails due to a lack of oxygen. Over time, the obstruction could damage the affected sections of the respiratory tract if not treated promptly.