Skip to main content

Ask a doctor: ‘I swallowed a bug — now what should I do?'

Swallowing a bug can be a startling and somewhat disgusting occurrence — but is it dangerous or just a nuisance? A physician offered his expert opinion.

Most people have experienced that moment of discomfort when they realize a bug has wound up where it shouldn't be — in their windpipe.

That includes Taylor Swift, who on more than one occasion has accidentally swallowed a bug while performing on stage in front of thousands of people.

It can be a startling and somewhat disgusting occurrence — but is this dangerous, or just a nuisance?

LOCAL DENGUE FEVER CASES CONFIRMED IN FLORIDA KEYS, SPREAD BY MOSQUITO BITES

Dr. Raj Dasgupta, a quadruple board-certified physician in California, shared with Fox News Digital the true impacts of accidentally swallowing a bug, and the best thing to do if it happens.

"Swallowing a bug can often happen accidentally when you’re eating or drinking outside, or if a bug flies into your mouth," Dasgupta, who serves as chief medical advisor for Fortune Recommends, told Fox News Digital via email.

"It can also happen if you’re talking or laughing outdoors. Sometimes it might even happen indoors if bugs are in your food or drink and you don't realize it."

ASK A DOCTOR: ‘HOW CAN I PREVENT SCARRING FROM BUG BITES AND POISON IVY?’

Swallowing a bug is usually not dangerous, Dasgupta noted. 

"The stomach's digestive acids usually break down the bug, and it is passed out of the body without causing harm," he said.

If the bug carries harmful bacteria or parasites, however, it could cause gastrointestinal issues or allergic reactions, according to the doctor.

The type of bug can make a difference, he said.

"Bugs like beetles or ants are less of a concern, but bugs that are known to spread diseases — such as mosquitoes — might be riskier."

If you happen to swallow a bug, drinking some water can help wash it down, Dasgupta said. 

"If you start feeling sick, like abdominal pain, vomiting or nausea, keep an eye on your symptoms," the doctor said.

If you have severe stomach pain, ongoing vomiting, trouble breathing, or swelling, rash or itching, Dasgupta said to see a doctor. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

"If you know the bug could have diseases or if you have health conditions that might complicate things, it’s a good idea to get checked out to be safe," he added.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

Some bugs — including grasshoppers, beetles, termites, mealworms and even stink bugs — are actually considered edible in certain countries, and are prepared and eaten as part of meals, according to WebMD’s website.

Data & News supplied by www.cloudquote.io
Stock quotes supplied by Barchart
Quotes delayed at least 20 minutes.
By accessing this page, you agree to the following
Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions.