216

THE LARYNX, BRONCHI AND OESOPHAGUS

been successful, the object will be coughed out or swallowed, and the spasm
will settle. If the reflex has not been successful in preventing inhalation of the
foreign body the symptoms also gradually settle, although an expiratory
wheeze may persist. Failure of the reflex is more liable to occur if a sudden
inspiration, due to fright or laughter, precedes the cough reflex, because this
deep inspiration may open the glottis widely and allow the entry of the object.

108. Foreign body (safety-pin) in subgtottic region of the larynx, showing position of flattened
body held up in the larynx and trachea. A, Anteroposterior view; B, Lateral view.