Last Updated on May 26, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that a pea can grow inside the lungs. Upon conducting a fact-check, we discovered that this assertion is False.
The Claim
A popular Facebook page recently posted a claim that states that if you inhale a pea, it can sprout and grow inside your lungs. This particular post has garnered significant attention, accumulating over 267 reactions and generating numerous comments. With an impressive following of over 600,000 likes, it consistently shares captivating photos and videos that showcase intriguing facts about our world.
An screenshot of the post has been attached below:
Fact Check
Can a food particle enter lungs?
Yes, food particles can enter lungs through a process called Foreign-body aspiration (FBA). It is commonly known as inhalation or aspiration of a foreign body. It occurs when an object or substance enters the airway, typically through inhalation, and becomes lodged in the respiratory tract. FBA can happen when individuals accidentally inhale objects like food, small toys, buttons, coins, or other small items instead of swallowing them. The foreign body may become stuck in the airway, causing partial or complete obstruction, which can lead to respiratory distress, coughing, wheezing, choking, or difficulty in breathing.
FBA is a relatively uncommon but potentially life-threatening event that can occur in both adults and children. Adults with FBA often exhibit non-specific respiratory symptoms, and healthcare providers frequently misdiagnose or underdiagnose the condition, resulting in delayed management and increased morbidity and mortality.
The most common causes of FBA in adults include impaired consciousness due to drugs, alcohol, or anesthesia, as well as neurological and neuromuscular disorders affecting swallowing and cough reflexes. Other risk factors for FBA in adults include advanced age, poor dental health, tracheostomy, and airway instrumentation.
Can a seed sprout inside the lungs or body?
No. It is highly unlikely for a seed to sprout inside the lungs or body. Seeds require specific conditions for germination, including moisture, oxygen, and appropriate temperature. Human body is typically not a suitable environment for seed germination, as it lacks the necessary conditions for the process. Additionally, seeds have protective coatings that prevent them from germinating until they are exposed to the proper conditions. Even if a seed was ingested, it would likely pass through the digestive system without sprouting. However, if a seed were to germinate inside the body, it has the potential to cause health issues, and immediate medical attention should be sought to address the situation.
We have encountered inconsistent claims about human health on multiple occasions in the past. In context with lungs, THIP MEDIA has previously debunked all lung diseases have a single treatment option.
What happens when food enters your lungs?
When food, liquids, or any foreign object enters the lungs, it is called aspiration. It can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications, including pneumonia. These symptoms can vary depending on the amount and type of material that is aspirated and the individual’s underlying health status. Some common symptoms of aspiration include coughing, choking, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. In some cases, the individual may have a hoarse voice or difficulty speaking.
If the aspiration leads to pneumonia, symptoms can include fever, chills, coughing up phlegm, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Pneumonia caused by aspiration can be severe and lead to respiratory failure if not treated promptly. In cases of suspected FBA, prompt removal of the foreign body is essential to prevent complications such as pneumonia, abscess formation, and respiratory failure. The approach to foreign body removal depends on the size, shape, and location of the foreign body, as well as the patient’s clinical status and the available resources.
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