What Happens If You Eat Paper by Mistake? Gastroenterologist Shares the Health Risks and Next Steps

What Should You Do If You Eat Paper?

If you accidentally swallow a small piece of clean paper and feel fine, you probably don’t need to worry. Dr Rajesh recommends, “To help the paper pass through your digestive tract, consume a lot of water and fibre-rich foods.” But if you notice constipation, vomiting, stomach pain, or just don’t feel well, it’s time to see a doctor.

For children and people with medical conditions, even small amounts of paper should be taken seriously. And if someone keeps eating paper, it’s important to talk to a doctor to rule out underlying health or mental health issues. “If you are unsure or if your symptoms worsen, you should always consult a gastroenterologist,” Dr. Rajesh advises.

Is Accidentally Eating Paper Dangerous?

Dr Rajesh says that, in most cases, swallowing a small, clean piece of paper isn’t a big deal. “Your body should have no trouble eliminating it,” he explains. Paper acts a bit like fibre and usually passes through your digestive system without causing harm. But there are a few things to watch out for.

“If the paper is printed on or chemically treated, it may be more dangerous because the ink, dye, or plastic coating may be very unhealthy,” Dr. Rajesh warns. Eating soiled paper or something that’s been on the floor can also introduce germs, which might cause nausea or an upset stomach.

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What Health Complications Can Paper Cause?

While most accidental paper eating is harmless, there are exceptions. Dr Rajesh says, “Excessive paper use or consumption may cause indigestion, upset stomach, or even intestinal blockage.” This is especially true for children, the elderly, or anyone with digestive issues. Large amounts of paper can clump together and block the intestines, which is a medical emergency.

Chemicals, inks, and coatings on some papers can also be toxic if eaten. “Sometimes soiled paper or paper that has been on the floor can spread germs,” Dr Rajesh adds. Eating non-food items like paper repeatedly can be a sign of a condition called Pica, which needs medical attention.

Who Should Be Extra Careful?

Dr Rajesh points out that children, the elderly, and people with digestive problems should be especially cautious. “They may be more susceptible to issues like bowel obstruction or allergic reactions,” he says. Even a small amount of paper could cause problems for these groups. And if someone is eating paper regularly, it could signal a behavioural or nutritional issue that needs to be checked out.

A study published in the journal Cureus looked at cases of Pica and accidental ingestion of non-food items. The researchers found that while most small, non-toxic objects pass through the digestive system without harm, repeated or large-volume ingestion can cause serious problems, especially in children and people with underlying health issues. 

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Takeaway

Swallowing a tiny bit of paper by mistake is usually nothing to panic about, especially if it’s clean. But if you feel unwell, or if it happens often, don’t ignore it and see a doctor. And remember, eating paper regularly is a sign that something else might be going on, so it’s always best to get it checked out.