Batteries, ubiquitous in countless household devices, convert stored chemical energy into electrical power. While essential for modern living, these seemingly harmless objects pose a significant hazard if chewed or ingested. The internal components of a battery are not meant for oral contact and can cause severe, rapid damage.
Understanding Battery Hazards
Batteries contain a complex mix of chemicals that become dangerous upon exposure. When a battery casing is breached through chewing, corrosive chemicals, such as the alkaline electrolyte found in common AA/AAA batteries or lithium in button cells, can leak out. These substances are highly reactive and can cause immediate chemical burns upon contact with sensitive tissues.
Beyond chemical exposure, batteries also present an electrical hazard. If the battery is damaged and short-circuited, it can release an electrical current. This current can generate heat, leading to thermal burns on contact with tissues. Small, coin-shaped lithium “button” batteries are especially hazardous due to their size and chemical composition, making them easy to swallow and lodge in the body.
Immediate Health Consequences
Chewing on a battery can lead to severe and immediate health consequences due to both chemical and electrical mechanisms. The release of corrosive chemicals, such as strong alkalis or acids, causes rapid chemical burns to the mouth, tongue, and potentially the esophagus and digestive tract if ingested. This corrosive action can quickly lead to tissue destruction.
The electrical current generated by a damaged battery, especially button cells, contributes to this tissue damage. When a battery comes into contact with moist tissue, like the lining of the esophagus, it creates an electrical circuit. This current can cause additional thermal injury and accelerate tissue death. Symptoms can manifest quickly, including intense pain, noticeable swelling, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing. Physical damage from the battery’s casing breaking apart can also cause cuts or abrasions. Ingesting a battery, particularly a button battery, can lead to it lodging in the esophagus, where it can cause a burn through the wall of the esophagus in as little as two hours.
Recognizing Signs and Seeking Urgent Care
Recognizing the signs that someone has chewed on or ingested a battery is crucial, as symptoms can sometimes be subtle or delayed. Look for immediate signs such as sudden crying, gagging, refusal to eat or drink, or excessive drooling. Other indications might include a sore throat, coughing, vomiting, or chest discomfort. Even if the individual appears to be fine, internal damage can be progressing rapidly.
Immediate medical attention is necessary. Call emergency services or a poison control center. Do not induce vomiting, as this can worsen the damage from corrosive chemicals. Do not give the person any food or drink unless instructed by medical personnel. If possible, bring the battery packaging or a matching battery to the hospital to assist medical professionals.
Safeguarding Against Battery Incidents
Preventing battery incidents requires careful storage and device maintenance. Always store batteries out of reach of children and pets, ideally in their original packaging or child-resistant containers. Secure battery compartments on household devices.
Proper disposal of old or used batteries is important. Do not simply throw them in the trash, as they can still pose a risk of leakage or fire. Instead, take them to designated battery recycling centers or household hazardous waste collection sites. Educating household members about the dangers of batteries and the importance of handling them safely can help prevent future incidents.