AA batteries are common household items, typically providing 1.5 volts (V) of power. Widely used in portable electronic devices, swallowing a AA battery is a serious medical event that requires immediate attention.
The Immediate Dangers
Swallowing a AA battery can lead to severe internal damage through distinct mechanisms. A significant danger comes from corrosive alkaline chemicals, such as potassium hydroxide, within the battery. If the casing leaks, these substances can cause rapid and severe chemical burns to the delicate tissues of the esophagus, stomach, or intestines, resulting in ulcerations.
Even a battery with low charge can generate an electrical current upon contact with moist internal tissues. This current causes electrochemical burns, leading to tissue necrosis, which is the death of cells in the affected area. Prolonged contact with mucosal surfaces, especially in the esophagus, can intensify this electrical damage.
The physical size of a AA battery also poses a risk of physical obstruction. If the battery becomes lodged in the digestive tract, particularly the narrow esophagus, it can cause pressure injury. This blockage can lead to complications, including the potential for the battery to erode through the esophageal wall. While smaller button batteries are known for rapid burns, AA batteries present considerable risks due to their larger chemical content and potential for physical impaction.
Urgent Steps to Take
If a AA battery has been swallowed, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Contacting emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room without delay is essential, as time is a critical factor in preventing severe damage. Providing medical professionals with information about the type of battery ingested and the estimated time of ingestion can assist in prompt treatment.
It is important to avoid inducing vomiting, as this can further lodge the battery or cause additional chemical exposure if corrosive substances leak. Do not give the person anything to eat or drink until advised by a medical professional. Consuming liquids or food might interfere with medical assessment or potentially worsen the situation.
Medical Intervention and Recovery
Upon arrival at a medical facility, doctors will use X-rays to determine the battery’s exact location within the body. This imaging helps guide the subsequent medical approach. If the battery is lodged in the esophagus, immediate removal is often necessary.
Endoscopy is a common procedure for battery removal when it is in the esophagus or stomach. This involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera and instruments down the throat to visualize and grasp the battery. In instances where the battery has caused significant damage or is inaccessible endoscopically, surgical intervention might be required.
After the battery’s removal, continuous monitoring is necessary to check for potential complications. These can include perforation (a hole in the affected organ), strictures (narrowings of the digestive tract due to scar tissue), or internal bleeding. Untreated battery ingestion can lead to severe outcomes, including esophageal perforation, abnormal connections between organs (fistulas), or life-threatening conditions.
Preventing Accidental Swallowing
Preventing accidental swallowing of AA batteries involves implementing several safety measures in the home. Batteries should always be stored in their original packaging or in secure, child-proof containers. Keeping them out of the reach and sight of children is a fundamental step to prevent curious exploration.
Proper disposal of used batteries is also important to ensure they do not become a hazard. Tape both sides of used batteries and store them in a secured bag before taking them to a designated recycling point. Supervising children, particularly when batteries are in use or accessible, helps minimize the risk of ingestion. This vigilance extends to devices that contain batteries, ensuring their compartments are securely closed.