For seafood lovers, there’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh fish. Whether it’s grilled, baked, or fried, a well-prepared fish filet can be an absolute delight. But every seafood fan knows one of the most frustrating experiences—getting a tiny fish bone caught in your throat. While most fish bones are small and more annoying than dangerous, they can be difficult to dislodge and may even cause complications if left untreated.
The good news is that there are safe and effective home remedies you can try if you ever find yourself in this situation. Below, we’ll explore five ways to remove a fish bone from your throat without causing harm. But remember, never use utensils or foreign objects to try and remove the bone—this can make things worse.
1. Cough Forcefully to Dislodge the Bone
Your body’s natural reflex when something gets stuck in your throat is to cough, and this is actually a good thing. Coughing generates strong bursts of air that may help to dislodge the fish bone from your throat. This method is often the first thing people try and with good reason—it’s your body’s built-in defense mechanism to remove foreign objects.
If the bone is only slightly lodged in the throat, a few forceful coughs may be all you need to clear it. Even though it might feel uncomfortable, don’t hold back on those coughs. The more forceful, the better the chance of moving that bone.
2. Swallow Bread to Catch and Remove the Bone
One of the most commonly recommended remedies for getting rid of a fish bone stuck in your throat is to eat a piece of bread. But why bread? Think of bread like a sponge—it’s soft and can absorb things around it. When you swallow a chunk of bread without chewing it too finely, the soft, sticky texture may grab onto the bone as it passes down your throat.
Here’s how to do it:
- Take a small but not overly chewed piece of soft bread (white or whole wheat works well).
- Swallow the piece of bread whole or with a bit of water to help it slide down smoothly.
- As the bread moves through your throat, it may catch the fish bone and dislodge it, carrying it safely down into your stomach.
It’s a simple trick, but surprisingly effective. Many people swear by this method, and it’s definitely worth a try before seeking medical help.
3. Use Olive Oil as a Natural Lubricant
If coughing or swallowing bread doesn’t work, another option is to try olive oil. Olive oil acts as a natural lubricant, which can help the bone slide down your throat more easily. Unlike water or milk, olive oil is thicker and doesn’t dissolve as quickly, making it more effective for this purpose.
Here’s how to use olive oil to remove the bone:
- Take a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil (or another edible oil like coconut oil).
- Slowly swallow the oil, allowing it to coat the sides of your throat.
- The oil will help lubricate the passage and may make the fish bone heavy enough to naturally dislodge and pass into your digestive system.
While it might not sound like the tastiest solution, olive oil is safe, natural, and often very effective at helping remove lodged bones.
4. Try Marshmallows for a Sweet Solution
Who knew marshmallows could be useful beyond satisfying your sweet tooth? If you’re in need of a fun (and tasty) solution, marshmallows can help dislodge that stubborn fish bone. The thick, spongy texture of a marshmallow works similarly to bread, but its stickiness gives it an extra edge in catching onto the bone.
Here’s what to do:
- Grab a large marshmallow (the fluffy kind works best).
- Chew it lightly, but not too much, so it retains its sticky texture.
- Swallow the marshmallow whole or with a sip of water to help it slide down.
The soft yet sticky consistency can grab onto the fish bone and carry it down your throat, freeing you from discomfort. You may need to eat a few marshmallows for it to work, but at least you’ll have fun trying!
5. Seek Medical Attention If Necessary
If none of the above remedies work and you still feel the fish bone in your throat, it’s essential to seek medical attention. A bone that remains lodged in your throat for an extended period can lead to infection, irritation, or other complications. In some cases, the bone may be stuck deeper than you realize, and only a medical professional will be able to safely remove it.
Some signs that it’s time to see a doctor include:
- Persistent pain in your throat, even after trying remedies.
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing.
- Any sign of swelling or infection, such as redness or a fever.
Doctors have specialized tools to safely and quickly remove fish bones from the throat, ensuring that you don’t cause further harm by trying to dislodge it yourself.
Don’t Let a Fish Bone Ruin Your Meal
While getting a fish bone stuck in your throat can be a frustrating experience, it doesn’t have to ruin your love for seafood. With these simple and safe remedies—coughing, swallowing bread, using olive oil, or even marshmallows—you can effectively and painlessly dislodge the bone and get back to enjoying your meal.
Remember, never use foreign objects like forks or utensils to try to remove the bone, as this can cause more harm than good. And if all else fails, don’t hesitate to seek medical help. Fish bones may be small, but their potential for causing discomfort or even harm should not be underestimated.
Now that you’re armed with these tips, don’t shy away from a fresh filet! Share these tricks with your fellow seafood lovers, and enjoy every bite—without fear of the pesky bones.
