Clinic procedures

Fish Bone Removal at Intouchmedicare

A fish bone stuck in the throat is a common accident, especially in countries where eating fish is popular. Although it may not seem serious, in some cases, it can lead to serious complications if not treated properly. Therefore, it is recommended to have a fish bone stuck in the throat treated by a doctor.

Useful Information About Fish Bone Removal

What Is a Fish Bone Stuck in the Throat? & Where Does It Usually Get Stuck?

A fish bone stuck in the throat is a condition in which a fish bone or small piece of bone becomes embedded or lodged in the lining of the upper digestive tract. It is commonly found in the following areas:

  1. Tonsils
  2. Base of the tongue
  3. Pharynx
  4. Upper esophagus

The location where the fish bone becomes lodged often depends on its size and shape, as well as how the food is swallowed.

What Symptoms Should Prompt You to See a Doctor?

  1. Severe sore throat or throat irritation
  2. Pain or difficulty when swallowing
  3. A constant feeling that something sharp is poking the throat
  4. Pain radiating to the ear
  5. Bleeding or blood in the saliva
  6. Fever, swelling, or increasing pain

You should see a doctor immediately if you have difficulty breathing or a change in your voice.

Cost of Treatment for a Fish Bone Stuck in the Throat

The cost depends on the treatment method and the complexity of the case. In general, the cost may include the doctor’s examination fee, equipment used to remove the fish bone, and antibiotics and pain medication.

If the fish bone is deeply lodged or there are complications, the patient may need to be referred to a hospital for an endoscopic examination, which may result in higher costs depending on the necessary treatment.

How Much Does Fish Bone Removal at Intouch Medicare Cost?

  • The cost of treatment for a fish bone stuck in the throat starts at 1,840 Baht
  • The price may vary depending on the doctor’s diagnosis.

How to Treat a Fish Bone Stuck in the Throat

The doctor will choose the treatment method based on the location and depth of the fish bone, such as:

  1. Examine the mouth and throat using a light and specialized equipment.
  2. Use forceps to remove the fish bone.
  3. Use a local anesthetic to reduce pain.
  4. If the fish bone cannot be seen, further examination with an endoscope or X-ray may be required.
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How to Prepare Before Coming to the Clinic for Fish Bone Removal

  • Do not try to remove the fish bone yourself.
  • Do not swallow hard or large pieces of food.
  • Tell the doctor when the symptoms started and what type of food you were eating.
  • Inform the doctor about any underlying medical conditions or drug allergies.

After the fish bone has been removed, the lining of the throat may still be irritated or have small wounds. Proper self-care can help the wound heal faster, reduce inflammation, and prevent complications.

How to Take Care of Yourself After the Fish Bone Has Been Removed

  • Choose Soft Foods That Do Not Irritate the Throat During the first 1–2 days, eat soft foods such as rice porridge, congee, and soup at a warm or normal temperature. Avoid hard, very spicy, very sour, or very hot foods, as they may irritate wounds in the throat.
  • Drinking enough water helps keep the throat moist, reduce irritation, and promote faster healing. It is recommended to take frequent sips of water rather than drinking a large amount at once.
  • Gargle with Warm Salt Water You can gargle with warm salt water 2–3 times a day to help reduce inflammation, reduce germs, and relieve a sore throat.
  • Take Medication as Prescribed by the Doctor If the doctor prescribes painkillers, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatory medication, take them as directed and do not stop taking them on your own.
  • Avoid Probing or Trying to Check Your Throat Yourself Do not use your fingers or any device to probe your throat, as this may cause scratches, swelling, or recurrent infection.
  • Getting enough rest helps the body repair itself and can help reduce inflammation more quickly.
  • Watch for Abnormal Symptoms You should see a doctor immediately if you experience increasing or persistent throat pain, swelling, redness, or fever; worsening difficulty swallowing; bleeding or blood in the saliva; or a feeling that a fish bone is still stuck in your throat.

Doctor’s Experience in Treating a Fish Bone Stuck in the Throat

“An adult patient felt as if a fish bone was poking the right side of the throat after eating fish. The patient decided to see a doctor immediately and was able to clearly indicate the area of pain. The doctor examined the mouth and throat using a flashlight and a tongue depressor and found a fish bone lodged at the right side of the base of the tongue. The doctor then carefully used specialized equipment to remove the fish bone. The patient felt relieved, and the pain decreased immediately after the fish bone was removed.”

Phatthaporn Sriprakun, M.D. Wor.56788 – Clinic Doctor –

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In some cases, the fish bone may not be visible to the naked eye, especially when it is deeply lodged or located in an area that is difficult to see. In such cases, the doctor may consider referring the patient to a hospital to locate the fish bone through endoscopy or radiological examination to ensure safer and more accurate treatment.

If you suspect that a fish bone is stuck in your throat and you still have pain or irritation, do not try to remove it yourself. You should see a doctor as soon as possible. If the fish bone is still in a superficial location, it can be removed more easily, takes less time, and reduces the risk of complications.

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Phatthaporn Sriprakun, M.D.
General Practitioner

Latest edit : 08/09/2026
 Images may be used without prior permission exclusively for educational or informational purposes, as long as proper credit is given to intouchmedicare.com

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