Farmer Swallows Bone at Feast, Ends Up in Hospital
A 50-year-old farmer from Khatav taluka in Satara district was recently hospitalised after a piece of mutton bone got stuck in his throat during a traditional Akhad feast. What started as a festive meal turned into a medical emergency, highlighting the risks of unexpected food-related injuries.
A Sudden Incident During a Festive Meal
The incident occurred during a customary Akhad gathering, which is commonly held before the start of the holy month of Shravan. At these events, non-vegetarian dishes like mutton are often enjoyed one last time before many begin a period of vegetarianism and fasting.
While enjoying the meal, the farmer was suddenly startled when a cat jumped towards his plate. In the moment of distraction, he accidentally swallowed a piece of meat containing a sharp bone. He immediately felt discomfort but did not seek medical help right away.
Worsening Symptoms Over Two Days
Initially, the farmer tried to manage the pain using home remedies. However, his symptoms began to worsen. He experienced increasing difficulty in swallowing and complained of chest pain. Due to the nature of the pain, his family suspected a possible heart issue and consulted a cardiologist.
Diagnosis and Medical Treatment
After the cardiac evaluation showed no signs of heart problems, doctors suspected an issue with his food pipe (esophagus). The family then took him to Meenakshi Hospital in Satara. There, a team of doctors conducted an endoscopy (a procedure that uses a thin tube with a camera to examine the inside of the digestive tract).
The endoscopy confirmed the presence of a mutton bone lodged in the lower part of the esophagus. The medical team carefully removed the bone, and the patient’s symptoms improved almost immediately.
Understanding the Cultural Context
The Akhad feast is a long-standing tradition in many parts of rural Maharashtra. It is typically celebrated just before the month of Shravan begins, a period when many people abstain from meat and follow strict religious practices. The feast serves as a final moment of indulgence, allowing families to come together and enjoy rich, traditional dishes.
However, this incident serves as a reminder to be cautious while eating, especially during large gatherings where distractions are common.
Conclusion
This case emphasises the importance of seeking timely medical care when unusual symptoms arise after eating. Swallowing a bone or foreign object can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. In this case, what was initially thought to be a heart problem turned out to be a lodged bone highlighting how similar symptoms can have very different causes.
If someone experiences chest discomfort, pain while swallowing, or a sensation of something stuck in the throat after eating, it is crucial to consult a doctor without delay.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
