How Does Sword Swallowing Work?

Sword swallowing is a skill in which the performer passes a sword through the mouth and down the esophagus to the stomach. ... The natural processes that constitute swallowing do not take place, but are repressed to keep the passage from the mouth to the stomach open for the sword.

Is swallowing a sword dangerous?

"The main risks of sword swallowing are perforation of the pharynx and esophagus, and bleeding," said Witcombe. ... Researchers found that things get especially hazardous when swallowers use multiple or unusual swords. One swallower in the study tore his throat while trying to swallow a curved saber.

Can you breathe while sword swallowing?

At first, performers usually hold their breath while repressing the gag reflex but later they learn how to breathe during the performance. Sword swallowers also usually bite down on the blade to prevent actual swallowing of the blade.