Ingesting batteries, whether small or large, presents a serious medical emergency. These power sources can cause significant internal damage, leading to severe health complications if not addressed promptly. This article provides information regarding the risks and necessary steps.
Common Battery Types and Their Specific Dangers
The type of battery ingested influences the potential harm. Button or coin cell batteries, typically small and flat, are frequently involved in ingestion incidents, particularly among young children. These batteries, found in items like remote controls, toys, and hearing aids, pose a unique danger due to their ability to generate an electrical current when in contact with moist tissue, such as the esophagus. This electrical activity can rapidly cause severe chemical burns.
Larger cylindrical batteries, such as AA or AAA types, are less commonly ingested but present different risks. Their size can lead to physical obstruction in the digestive tract, potentially blocking the esophagus or intestines. While intact cylindrical batteries generally pose a lower risk of immediate chemical burns than button cells, they can still leak corrosive chemicals if damaged or if they remain lodged for an extended period. These leaks can result in chemical burns and, in rare cases, lead to heavy metal toxicity.
How Ingested Batteries Cause Harm
Batteries cause internal harm through several mechanisms. One primary danger, especially with button batteries, is the rapid generation of an electrical current when the battery comes into contact with saliva or other bodily fluids. This current initiates a chemical reaction that produces hydroxide, a highly corrosive alkaline substance. This process can cause severe chemical burns, leading to tissue liquefaction and necrosis in as little as two hours.
Physical obstruction is another concern, particularly with larger batteries or when a button battery becomes lodged in a narrow passage. Such blockages can cause pressure on surrounding tissues, leading to damage and perforation of organs. The battery’s contents, including alkaline solutions or heavy metals like lithium, can also leak, causing additional chemical burns or, in rare instances, systemic poisoning.
Symptoms of battery ingestion vary widely and may not appear immediately, making diagnosis challenging. Common signs include coughing, drooling, difficulty swallowing or breathing, and general discomfort. More severe symptoms might involve vomiting (which could be bloody), abdominal pain, fever, or black, tarry stools, indicating internal bleeding. A change in voice or irritability can be subtle indicators of internal injury.
Immediate Steps and Professional Medical Care
If battery ingestion is suspected or confirmed, immediate medical attention is necessary. Do not attempt to induce vomiting, as this can cause further damage as the battery passes back through the esophagus. Avoid giving the person anything to eat or drink until medical professionals advise otherwise.
Contact a poison control center immediately by calling 1-800-222-1222, or the National Battery Ingestion Hotline at 800-498-8666, or proceed directly to the nearest emergency department. Provide medical staff with information about the battery type, if known, and the approximate time of ingestion. Bringing the battery packaging or a matching battery can also aid in identification.
Medical interventions typically begin with X-rays to locate the battery within the body. If the battery is lodged in the esophagus, urgent removal, often via endoscopy, is recommended within two to six hours to prevent severe tissue damage. Batteries that have passed into the stomach may be monitored for natural passage, but removal might be necessary if symptoms develop or if the battery is large and remains in the stomach for an extended period.
Preventing Battery Ingestion
Preventing battery ingestion is important, especially in households with children. Always store batteries, whether new or used, securely out of sight and reach of children. Consider using devices with child-resistant battery compartments, which often require a tool like a screwdriver to open.
Proper and immediate disposal of used batteries minimizes risk. Do not leave loose batteries lying around, as they can easily be picked up by curious children. Be mindful of common household items containing button batteries, such as remote controls, key fobs, hearing aids, and small electronic toys, and ensure their battery compartments are secure.