Swallowing a foreign object, such as a penny, can be a startling experience, often prompting immediate concern. While common, particularly among young children, the outcome can vary. Most swallowed coins pass through the digestive system without complication, but instances exist where medical attention becomes necessary.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Help
If a penny is swallowed, watch for urgent symptoms indicating a medical emergency. Seek immediate emergency care if the individual experiences choking, persistent coughing, or difficulty breathing, as these signs may suggest the coin has entered the airway rather than the food pipe. Excessive drooling, inability to swallow, or severe chest or abdominal pain also require immediate medical evaluation. These symptoms can signal an acute obstruction or other serious issues.
The Penny’s Path Through the Body
When a penny is swallowed, it typically enters the esophagus, the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach. From there, the digestive system’s muscular contractions, known as peristalsis, usually propel the coin. Most pennies, being small and blunt, move from the esophagus into the stomach, then through the small intestine, and eventually into the large intestine. The coin will then exit the body through feces.
While most coins pass without incident, there are specific areas where they might become lodged. These common sites include the esophagus, particularly at natural narrowings or areas of prior injury, or less commonly, the stomach or intestines. Factors such as the coin’s size can influence its passage; larger coins, like those over one inch in diameter, are more likely to get stuck than smaller ones like pennies. Most swallowed coins (80% to 90%) pass through the gastrointestinal tract without intervention.
What to Watch For After Swallowing
If the initial incident did not necessitate emergency care, monitoring is important. Most swallowed pennies will pass naturally, often within a few days, though it can take up to a week or even longer. Checking the stool for the coin’s passage is a common recommendation.
Be aware of symptoms that might develop later, indicating a potential problem. These include persistent abdominal pain, recurrent vomiting, fever, or changes in bowel habits such as decreased appetite or blood in the stool. Such symptoms suggest the penny may have become lodged, causing irritation, a partial obstruction, or, rarely, a tear in the digestive tract. While many objects pass harmlessly, any developing symptoms warrant medical consultation to ensure safe passage and address potential complications.