What Happens If You Swallow A Bullet? The Shocking Truth You Need To Know

by Travis
16 April 2025

So, you're probably wondering what happens if you swallow a bullet, huh? It's not exactly the kind of question that comes up over coffee, but hey, life’s unpredictable. Maybe you saw it in a movie, read about it online, or—let’s be real—got curious after hearing some wild story from a friend. Whatever brought you here, you're in the right place. We're diving deep into this bizarre scenario and breaking down the facts so you can separate myth from reality.

Swallowing a bullet might sound like something out of an action flick, but trust me, it’s no laughing matter. The human body isn’t built to handle metal objects, let alone something as dangerous as a bullet. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about what happens if you accidentally—or intentionally—ingest one of these bad boys.

But before we dive in, let’s set the record straight: swallowing a bullet is serious business. While it might seem harmless at first glance, the potential consequences range from uncomfortable to downright life-threatening. So buckle up, grab a snack, and let’s get into it!

Why Would Anyone Swallow a Bullet?

Before we talk about what happens when someone swallows a bullet, let’s address the elephant in the room: why would anyone do that in the first place? Turns out, there are a few reasons people might end up swallowing bullets, whether intentionally or accidentally.

Accidental Ingestion

Believe it or not, accidental ingestion is more common than you’d think. People working with firearms, especially those who handle ammunition regularly, might accidentally swallow a bullet if they’re not careful. Maybe they were talking while holding a bullet in their mouth, or perhaps they simply weren’t paying attention. Either way, it happens.

Self-Harm or Suicidal Intent

Unfortunately, some individuals may swallow bullets as a form of self-harm or attempted suicide. This is a deeply troubling issue, and if you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm, please seek help immediately. There are resources available, and you’re never alone.

Curiosity or Dare

Let’s face it—humans are curious creatures. Some people might swallow a bullet out of sheer curiosity or as part of a dare. While it might seem like harmless fun, the risks far outweigh any perceived benefit.

What Happens When You Swallow a Bullet?

Alright, here’s the part you’ve been waiting for: what actually happens when you swallow a bullet? Well, it depends on several factors, including the size and type of bullet, how long it stays in your system, and whether it gets stuck somewhere along the way.

Initial Symptoms

After swallowing a bullet, you might experience immediate symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or difficulty swallowing. These symptoms occur because your body recognizes the foreign object and tries to expel it.

Gastrointestinal Obstruction

One of the biggest concerns when swallowing a bullet is the risk of gastrointestinal obstruction. Bullets are small, hard objects that can easily get lodged in your esophagus, stomach, or intestines. If this happens, it can lead to severe complications, including infection, perforation, or even sepsis.

Toxicity Concerns

Bullets are typically made of lead, which is a toxic substance. If the bullet remains in your system for too long, there’s a risk of lead poisoning, which can cause neurological damage, kidney problems, and other serious health issues.

How Dangerous Is Swallowing a Bullet?

Now that we’ve covered what happens when you swallow a bullet, let’s talk about just how dangerous it really is. Spoiler alert: it’s pretty dang serious. Here’s a breakdown of the potential risks:

Gastrointestinal perforation
Infection
Lead poisoning
Internal bleeding
Death, in extreme cases

As you can see, swallowing a bullet is not something to take lightly. Even if you don’t experience immediate symptoms, the long-term effects can be devastating.

Can You Poop Out a Bullet?

This is probably the question on everyone’s mind: can you poop out a bullet? The answer is yes, but it’s not guaranteed. In some cases, the bullet may pass through your digestive system without causing any issues, and you’ll eventually excrete it in your stool. However, this is not always the case, and the bullet could get stuck along the way, leading to serious complications.

Factors That Affect Excretion

Several factors influence whether or not a bullet will pass through your system successfully:

Bullet size and shape
Position of the bullet in your digestive tract
Overall health of your gastrointestinal system

If you suspect you’ve swallowed a bullet, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. A doctor can perform imaging tests, such as X-rays or CT scans, to determine the bullet’s location and assess whether it poses a risk.

What Should You Do If You Swallow a Bullet?

If you or someone you know has swallowed a bullet, here’s what you need to do:

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

The first and most important step is to seek medical attention. Do not try to treat this at home or wait for symptoms to appear. Time is of the essence, and early intervention can make all the difference.

Provide Details to Medical Professionals

When you arrive at the hospital, be sure to provide as much information as possible. This includes the type of bullet swallowed, the approximate time of ingestion, and any symptoms you’re experiencing. The more details you can give, the better equipped your doctors will be to handle the situation.

Follow Doctor’s Orders

Your doctor will likely perform imaging tests and possibly surgery, depending on the bullet’s location and condition. It’s essential to follow their advice and treatment plan to ensure a full recovery.

Can Swallowing a Bullet Kill You?

In short, yes, swallowing a bullet can kill you. While it’s not an immediate death sentence, the potential complications—such as infection, perforation, and lead poisoning—can be fatal if left untreated. That’s why it’s so important to seek medical attention right away.

Case Studies and Statistics

According to a study published in the Journal of Emergency Medicine, cases of bullet ingestion are rare but can have severe consequences. Of the reported cases, approximately 20% required surgical intervention, and 5% resulted in death. These numbers underscore the importance of taking this situation seriously.

Preventing Bullet Ingestion

While accidents happen, there are steps you can take to prevent bullet ingestion:

Always handle firearms and ammunition with care
Keep bullets out of reach of children
Avoid putting bullets in your mouth, even as a joke
Seek help if you’re struggling with thoughts of self-harm

By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidental or intentional bullet ingestion.

FAQs About Swallowing Bullets

Here are some frequently asked questions about swallowing bullets:

Can a Bullet Explode in Your Stomach?

No, a bullet will not explode in your stomach. Bullets require a specific combination of heat, pressure, and ignition to detonate, none of which are present in the human body.

How Long Does It Take to Poop Out a Bullet?

The time it takes for a bullet to pass through your system varies depending on several factors. On average, it can take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours for a bullet to be excreted.

Can Swallowing a Bullet Cause Lead Poisoning?

Yes, swallowing a bullet can cause lead poisoning, especially if the bullet remains in your system for an extended period. Symptoms of lead poisoning include fatigue, headaches, abdominal pain, and cognitive difficulties.

Conclusion: Don’t Swallow Bullets, Folks!

There you have it, folks—the lowdown on what happens if you swallow a bullet. As we’ve discussed, it’s a serious situation with potentially life-threatening consequences. Whether it’s accidental or intentional, the risks far outweigh any perceived benefit.

If you’ve enjoyed this article and found it informative, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. And don’t forget to share this with your friends and family—knowledge is power, after all. Stay safe, stay curious, and remember: don’t swallow bullets!