A child swallowing a coin can be frightening for parents. Many coins pass through the digestive system without harm. Understanding the appropriate steps and what to expect can help manage this situation.
Immediate Steps to Take
Upon realizing a child has swallowed a coin, observe them closely for signs of distress, such as difficulty breathing, coughing, or drooling. Do not try to make the child vomit, as this can potentially cause the coin to become lodged in the airway. Instead, contact a pediatrician or a local poison control center for immediate advice. These professionals can provide specific guidance based on the child’s age and the type of object swallowed.
Understanding the Passage Process
A swallowed coin typically moves through the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. The passage time can vary, influenced by factors such as the child’s age, the coin’s size, and its initial location within the digestive tract. Most coins that successfully reach the stomach will pass through the digestive system and be expelled in stool within a few days to a week. Approximately 80% to 90% of ingested foreign bodies in children pass spontaneously without intervention.
The coin’s journey begins in the esophagus, a tube connecting the mouth to the stomach. If the coin passes this initial stage, it then enters the stomach, where it may remain for a period before moving into the small intestine. From there, it continues into the large intestine and eventually out of the body. Smaller coins, like pennies or dimes, are more likely to pass without issue compared to larger coins.
When to Seek Medical Care
Immediate medical attention is necessary if a child exhibits symptoms after swallowing a coin. These include difficulty breathing, persistent coughing or gagging, excessive drooling, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, or if the child appears unwell and lethargic. Such symptoms suggest the coin might be causing an obstruction or irritation.
It is important to determine if the swallowed object was a button battery instead of a coin. Button batteries pose a significant danger, causing severe chemical burns within hours. If a button battery is suspected, emergency medical care should be sought without delay. Distinguishing between a coin and a battery is crucial for prompt treatment.
Potential Medical Interventions
If a coin does not pass naturally or causes complications, medical professionals may consider various interventions. An X-ray is commonly used to locate the coin’s position within the digestive tract. The decision for intervention often depends on the coin’s location, the child’s symptoms, and the type of object swallowed. If the coin is lodged in the esophagus, an endoscopic procedure may be performed to remove it, involving a thin, flexible tube with a camera and tools. Rarely, if the coin has caused significant damage or cannot be removed endoscopically, surgical intervention might become necessary, typically for serious health risks or prolonged retention.