What happens if you swallow gum?

Although not recommended, if you accidentally swallow a piece of gum you're chewing, you don't have to worry too much.

Your body can't digest chewing gum, but some of the gum you swallow will usually pass through your digestive system — essentially intact — and be passed out in your stool about 40 hours later, just like almost anything else you eat. .

However, if you swallow large amounts of gum in a short period of time, it can cause a blockage in your intestines.

Should I go to the doctor if I swallow gum?   

If you swallow a piece of gum, there's probably no reason to see a doctor. It should pass normally through your digestive tract.

If you swallow a large amount of gum or if you swallow gum with other indigestible objects, it can cause blockage. This may require surgery to remove it from your digestive tract.

Symptoms of a blockage usually include abdominal pain and constipation, sometimes accompanied by vomiting. If you think you have a bowel obstruction, get checked out by your doctor.  /Telegraph/