Swallowing a small piece of plastic is common, often without realization. While concerning, tiny, non-sharp plastic fragments usually pass through the digestive system without problems. This article explains what happens when plastic is ingested and when medical attention may be needed.
The Digestive Process
When plastic is swallowed, it journeys through the digestive tract, from the esophagus to the stomach. Unlike food, plastic is not digestible by these acids and generally does not break down.
Peristalsis—the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive system—then propels the plastic forward. Small, smooth pieces typically travel through the small and large intestines. This journey usually takes between 24 and 72 hours, varying by object and individual metabolism. These fragments are excreted with stool, often without noticeable symptoms.
Recognizing Warning Signs
While many swallowed plastic pieces pass uneventfully, certain indicators suggest a potential problem. Immediate signs that a swallowed object might be causing an issue include choking, difficulty breathing, or persistent coughing, particularly if the object has become lodged in the airway. If the object is stuck in the esophagus, symptoms might include a sensation of a lump in the throat or chest, pain in the throat or chest, and difficulty swallowing.
As the object moves further down the digestive tract, other symptoms can emerge, such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, especially if blood is present. Changes in bowel habits, like constipation or blood in the stool, could also signal an issue. The characteristics of the plastic itself are important, as large pieces, sharp edges, or toxic materials can increase the risk of complications. Button batteries and magnets are particularly hazardous, even if small.
Possible Health Risks
When a swallowed piece of plastic does not pass safely, various medical complications can arise. One immediate danger is choking, which occurs if the object blocks the airway, leading to breathing difficulties. If a piece of plastic lodges in the esophagus, it can cause an esophageal obstruction, leading to pain and difficulty swallowing.
Further down the digestive tract, larger pieces of plastic can cause an intestinal blockage, resulting in abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. A sharp object may cause a perforation, which is a puncture of the digestive tract wall. This can lead to internal bleeding, infection, and inflammation within the abdominal cavity, a serious medical emergency. Button batteries are dangerous because they can create an electrical current with saliva, producing an alkaline chemical reaction that causes severe internal burns and tissue damage within hours. Magnets also pose a unique risk, as multiple swallowed magnets can attract each other across intestinal walls, pinching and potentially tearing the tissue.
Immediate Steps and Medical Guidance
If a small, smooth piece of plastic has been swallowed and no symptoms are present, it will likely pass naturally. However, if any warning signs develop, it is important to seek medical attention. Do not attempt to induce vomiting, as this can cause further injury, especially if the object is sharp or lodged.
For immediate concerns such as choking or severe breathing difficulties, call emergency services. If symptoms like persistent coughing, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits occur, consult a doctor. When seeking medical help, provide as much detail as possible about the swallowed object, including its size, shape, and material, as this information is crucial for medical professionals to determine the appropriate course of action.