Accidentally swallowing small, non-food items, including plastic, is common for both children and adults. While concerning, the human digestive system is adept at handling foreign objects. Most small, smooth pieces of plastic pass through the body without harm or requiring medical intervention.
The Body’s Natural Process
When a small, non-digestible object like a piece of plastic is swallowed, it embarks on a journey through the gastrointestinal tract. The object first passes down the esophagus. From there, it enters the stomach, where digestive acids and enzymes work to break down food, though they have no effect on plastic.
The plastic piece then moves into the small intestine. Finally, it reaches the large intestine. The entire journey is facilitated by peristalsis, the rhythmic, wave-like contractions of muscles lining the digestive tract that propel contents forward. This process allows them to pass through the digestive system without incident, often appearing in stool within 2 to 3 days, though it can sometimes take longer, up to a week.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many swallowed plastic pieces pass harmlessly, certain situations and symptoms warrant immediate medical consultation. Seek medical attention if a large piece of plastic, or one that is sharp, pointed, or jagged, has been swallowed, as these can cause internal injury or obstruction. Examples include broken toy parts or pieces of a credit card.
Symptoms requiring medical evaluation include choking, difficulty breathing, or persistent coughing, which suggest the object might be lodged in the airway. Other concerning signs are excessive drooling, severe abdominal pain, vomiting (especially if it contains blood), or blood in the stool. A fever or persistent discomfort after swallowing an object also signals the need for medical assessment. Special concern applies if the swallowed object was a battery, particularly a button battery, due to the risk of severe internal burns and damage. Additionally, infants or individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions, such as strictures, are at higher risk for complications and should be seen by a healthcare professional.
Factors Influencing the Outcome
Several characteristics of the swallowed plastic piece can influence whether it passes harmlessly or causes complications. The size of the object is a primary factor; larger pieces are more likely to become lodged in the esophagus or other parts of the digestive tract. Objects greater than about one inch (25 mm) in diameter often pose a higher risk of getting stuck.
The shape of the plastic is also significant. Smooth, rounded pieces tend to pass more easily than those with sharp, pointed, or jagged edges, which can cause scratches, lacerations, or even perforations of the digestive tract lining.
While most common plastics are considered non-toxic if ingested, their material and flexibility play a role. Extremely rigid or brittle plastics might break into sharper fragments, increasing the risk of injury. Individual factors also affect the outcome. Infants and young children are at a higher risk of complications due to their smaller airways and digestive passages, and their tendency to explore objects by mouth. Pre-existing medical conditions, such as gastrointestinal strictures or previous surgeries, can also create areas where foreign objects might become trapped. Despite these variables, for the vast majority of small, smooth plastic pieces, the body’s natural processes are effective, and the outcome is usually favorable.