First, there are many varieties of red dates, and the pits that cause acute abdomen are often large with sharp ends, which are the traditional large jujubes. In contrast, the pits of smaller red dates are relatively short, and even if accidentally swallowed, most can pass through the digestive tract. Therefore, this can be taken into consideration when purchasing.
Secondly, since the affected population is concentrated among the elderly, considering factors such as missing teeth and diminished nerve reflexes, it is recommended to remove the pits before eating red dates. This also applies to children. This can prevent problems before they arise.
Furthermore, some people have the habit of holding a date pit in their mouth for a long time. This is a bad habit. No fruit pit should be held in the mouth for an extended period, as it can be accidentally swallowed, or even inhaled, causing airway obstruction. As for the method of swallowing the pit along with the date, that is even more wrong.
Finally, what should you do if you accidentally swallow a date pit? First, assess the size and sharpness of the pit. If it is a large, high-risk jujube pit, seek medical attention promptly. It can be removed by methods such as gastroscopy. It should be noted that the pit does not stay in the stomach for long. Once it enters the duodenum, there is a risk of it becoming lodged, and if it enters the small intestine, the opportunity for endoscopic removal is lost.
What if you accidentally swallow a date pit and cannot get medical attention in time? In this case, you can drink a lubricant like sesame oil. Whether the pit will pass smoothly depends on luck. However, you should closely monitor for the onset of abdominal pain within the next 72 hours. If abdominal pain occurs, you must go to the emergency room and proactively inform the doctor about the history of swallowing the date pit, which will help with diagnosis and treatment.
In short, improper eating habits can harm the body. Although red dates are nourishing, they must be eaten with care.