A man who drank excessively developed aspiration pneumonia and accidentally ingested a wooden toothpick, which perforated his duodenum and caused sepsis. Doctors identified the toothpick via endoscopy, removed it, and he recovered fully, highlighting the dangers of hidden ingestions and alcohol-related health risks.
While it is possible for a stomach to rupture from overeating, it is uncommon. Gastrointestinal perforation occurs when the stomach becomes too full and ruptures, releasing its contents into the abdominal cavity. The average stomach can hold about one liter of food, but it can stretch to hold up to 128 fluid ounces. Most people's gag reflex would kick in when the stomach is full, preventing it from bursting. However, individuals with binge-eating disorder, bulimia, or other eating disorders may have manipulated their body's natural cues, making them more susceptible to stomach rupture. Prader-Willi syndrome, a rare genetic disorder, can also lead to an insatiable hunger and a higher risk of overeating-related complications.