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Swallowed an Agbalumo (African Star Apple) Seed? Here’s What to Do
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Swallowed an Agbalumo (African Star Apple) Seed? Here’s What to Do — Don’t Panic

Agbalumo (also known as African star apple or udara) is a beloved fruit across Nigeria. Its sweet‑tart taste makes it easy to enjoy—but sometimes, the seed can be accidentally swallowed, especially by children.

If this just happened, take a breath. In most cases, swallowing an agbalumo seed is not dangerous. Here’s what you should know and what to do next.

First Things First: Is It Dangerous?

Generally:

  • Agbalumo seeds are not poisonous
  • A single swallowed seed usually passes through the digestive system naturally
  • Most adults and older children will have no complications

Problems are uncommon, but knowing when to act is important.

What You Should Do Immediately

1. Stay Calm

Panic can worsen discomfort. If the person is breathing normally and not choking, there is no emergency.

2. Drink Water

Encourage sipping water to help the seed move smoothly through the throat and stomach.

3. Eat Soft, Bulky Foods

Foods like:

  • Bread
  • Swallow (eba, fufu)
  • Rice or pap

can help cushion the seed and aid safe passage through the intestines.

4. Observe, Don’t Force

Do not:

  • Induce vomiting
  • Give laxatives unnecessarily
  • Insert fingers into the throat

These actions can cause more harm than good.

What to Expect After Swallowing the Seed

In most cases:

  • The seed passes out naturally in stool within 24–72 hours
  • There is no pain or lasting effect

You do not need to check stool obsessively unless symptoms develop.

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When You Should See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if any of the following occur:

  • Persistent abdominal pain
  • Vomiting
  • Difficulty swallowing or breathing
  • Chest pain
  • Blood in stool
  • Fever
  • The swallowed seed was very large or swallowed by a small child
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These symptoms are rare but require evaluation.

Special Note for Children

Children have narrower airways and intestines. If a child swallows an agbalumo seed and shows:

  • Choking
  • Continuous crying
  • Drooling
  • Refusal to eat

Bring the child to a emergency healthcare facility promptly.

What NOT to Do (Important!)

❌ Do not take herbal mixtures or alcohol
❌ Do not force palm oil or native remedies
❌ Do not assume pain is “normal” if it persists

Safe care is always better than home experiments.

How to Prevent It Next Time

  • Remove seeds before giving agbalumo to children
  • Teach kids to spit out seeds
  • Eat slowly and mindfully

Need Medical Advice or an Abdominal Check?

At Mascot Healthcare Clinic, we offer:

  • Abdominal examination and scans if needed
  • Child‑friendly and adult outpatient care
  • Clear reassurance and safe follow‑up

👉 Visit or contact Mascot Healthcare Clinic if you’re worried or symptoms persist. We’re here to help—without panic, judgment, or delay.

Your peace of mind matters.