Possible problems due to excessive swallowing of bubble gum.

[Cynwlx]

I am a 42 year old female who has always had the habit of swallowing gum since childhood. About 2 weeks ago I ate an inordinaraly excessive amount of bubble gum.{Approximately 70 large chunks.} Now I have severe diarrhea whenever I try to eat anything solid. I have lost 12lbs in the last 8 days. I have no appitite and have to force myself to drink broth. I have no problem drinking liquids and have been taking vitimins and extra potassium to keep up my strenght, I am not dehydrated at all.
  My question, can anyone tell me about the possible effects that swallowing gum can have, and if this could possibly be what is causing my health problems. I am terribly embarresed to go tell my M.D about this. I would appreciate any imput possible.

                                Thank You,
                                      Cynwlx

[TASIA]

I SWALLOW AT LEAST 10 PIECES OF GUM A DAY.  WHEN I AM CHEWING GUM, I FEEL LIKE I HAVE TO SWALLOW IT.  I ONLY CHEW IT FOR A FEW MINUTES BEFORE SWALLOWING.  NOTHING HAS HAPPENED YET, SO I DON'T THINK ANYTHING SERIOUS WILL.  I HOPE!!!!   PLEASE POST A NOTE IF ANYONE KNOWS ANY HEALTH PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH SWALLOWING GUM.

[Lor]

I too have been a gum swallower all my life. Though never 70 pieces. I'm guessing that you didn't swallow them all at once. Gum usually passes right through your system, as we are unable to digest it. I'm guessing your symptoms have nothing to do with the swallowing of the gum unless it was done in a short amount of time. It could be possible for an obstruction which would cause vomiting and diarrhea. I think all we hear about gum swallowing are myths. I've never had a problem. The only negative thing I heard once and it wasn't me - was the gum getting caught up in the hair on the way out.

[TASIA]

I SWALLOW AT LEAST 10 PIECES OF GUM A DAY.  WHEN I AM CHEWING GUM, I FEEL LIKE I HAVE TO SWALLOW IT.  I ONLY CHEW IT FOR A FEW MINUTES BEFORE SWALLOWING.  NOTHING HAS HAPPENED YET, SO I DON'T THINK ANYTHING SERIOUS WILL.  I HOPE!!!!   PLEASE POST A NOTE IF ANYONE KNOWS ANY HEALTH PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH SWALLOWING GUM.

[Zeph]

Whether it's linked to your gum swallowing or not you should definately see your doctor.

[virgo57]

I found this info on a medical clinic site,
Swallowed gum also can cause problems. Large wads of gum can block the digestive tract (intestinal obstruction), causing dangerous constipation. In rare circumstances other swallowed items, like coins, may adhere to swallowed gum and lodge in your child's digestive system. If your child has chronic constipation, consider whether he or she might be swallowing gum. Don't give gum to children who aren't old enough to understand it shouldn't be swallowed
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From what you say I think you may have a blockage...70 chunks?
Was it all at once..it must not have been as I don't think that is possible..is it? If it was one after the other you are more than likely clogged up..big time. It's a wonder your not blowing bubbles out of your nose!
I would go to your doctors and forget about the embarrassment.
Hopefully he will be able to help you and in the future buy yourself some tic tacs or breath mints and stay away from the gum. Take care,,,I hope you are well.