Which of the following is NOT a sequela of choke?

• A. Aspiration pneumonia
• B. Strictures
• C. Diverticula
• D. Vomiting

Answer: (D)

When choking, the long-term problems you worry about are those that can persist after the acute event and reflect injury to the airway or esophagus. Aspiration of oropharyngeal or gastric contents during the episode can seed infection in the lungs, leading to aspiration pneumonia. If the esophagus or surrounding tissues are inflamed or damaged by the obstruction, scar tissue can form and tighten the lumen, causing strictures. Chronic obstruction or pressure changes can also contribute to the formation of diverticula in the esophagus or pharyngeal regions.

Vomiting, while it may occur at the moment of choking as a reflex response, does not persist as a lasting complication. It’s an acute symptom rather than a delayed sequela.