What happens when drink goes down the wrong way?

When a drink goes down the wrong "pipe", it usually refers to accidentally inhaling the liquid into your windpipe (trachea) instead of swallowing it into your esophagus. This can cause a range of symptoms, including coughing, choking, difficulty breathing, and a feeling of something being stuck in your throat.

Here's a step-by-step explanation of what happens when drink goes down the wrong way:

1. Inhalation: When you drink, you use your tongue to direct the liquid into the back of your throat. Normally, a flap of tissue called the epiglottis closes over your windpipe to prevent anything from entering it during swallowing. However, sometimes liquid can slip past the epiglottis and enter the trachea.

2. Cough reflex: The presence of liquid in your windpipe triggers a reflex cough. This is an involuntary reaction to protect your lungs from foreign substances. Coughing helps expel the liquid and any mucus from the trachea.

3. Difficulty breathing: If a significant amount of liquid enters the trachea, it can cause difficulty breathing. This is because the liquid can narrow the airways and make it harder for air to flow into your lungs.

4. Choking: In severe cases, inhaling liquid can lead to choking. Choking occurs when the airway becomes completely blocked, preventing air from entering the lungs. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate first aid or medical attention.

5. Aspiration pneumonia: In some cases, inhaled liquid can reach the lungs and cause aspiration pneumonia. This is a type of pneumonia that occurs when foreign material, such as food, drink, or saliva, enters the lungs. Aspiration pneumonia can lead to serious infections and complications, especially if not treated promptly.

If you experience difficulty breathing, choking, or persistent coughing after drinking, it's important to seek immediate medical attention. Proper first aid and medical interventions can help clear the airway, prevent complications, and ensure your safety.