Most parents have experienced a child swallowing something that was not intended to be put in the mouth. Most of the time it turns out to be okay, but not always. It is always a good idea to check in with your doctor or Poison Control (800-222-1222).
When to worry and what to do if your child swallows...
Detergent pods – such as Tide or Cascade
These packets may look like candy but can cause lots of problems, and symptoms may be delayed for 1-3 days:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach aches.
- Burns to the mouth, throat, esophagus and stomach.
- Scarring or perforation of the esophagus and stomach.
- Burns to the cornea of the eye.
Magnets
- New “rare earth” magnets such as Buckyballs have stronger attractive properties
- Attraction across different areas of the stomach and intestines can cause blockages and perforations
- Kids may use magnets on the tongue or lips to simulate piercings
- Any magnet can cause problems
- Symptoms may be delayed
Button batteries
- Button batteries are now more common and have stronger voltage, causing more damage
- They may stick in the throat they cause breathing problems
- They may stick in the esophagus where they cause swallowing problems, burns and perforations
- Symptoms may be delayed
Medications or Chemicals
The effects depend on the type and the amount. Damage may be delayed and may be serious.
- DON’T give Ipecac or induce vomiting unless advised to do so by a doctor or Poison Control.
- DON’T wait, call Poison Control as soon as you know or suspect – 800-222-1222
Miscellaneous
Most coins, pushpins, earrings, nails, tacks, Barbie shoes and legos pass through the system without causing any problems. But a few get stuck and don’t always cause symptoms. Here's what you should know:
- If your child is having worrisome symptoms such as trouble breathing, call 911.
- If your child reports the sensation of something stuck in the throat, the next step is an xray so come on in!
- Even if your child seems fine, call your doctor or Poison Control for advice.
