Accidentally swallowing a small object, like a quarter, is a common occurrence, particularly among children. While it can be a concerning event for individuals and caregivers, it is reassuring to know that in most instances, the human body is well-equipped to handle such foreign objects, and they pass through the digestive system without causing serious complications.
The Quarter’s Journey Through the Body
When a quarter is swallowed, it typically begins its journey down the esophagus, the muscular tube connecting the throat to the stomach. It then enters the stomach, where it is exposed to digestive acids. These acids are generally not strong enough to dissolve a metal coin.
From the stomach, the quarter moves into the small intestine, a long, coiled tube where nutrient absorption occurs. It then progresses into the large intestine, where water is absorbed, and waste material is formed. The coin is propelled through these sections by peristalsis, the wave-like muscle contractions of the digestive tract. The process typically takes a few days, though it can vary from 48 hours to a few weeks, depending on the individual and the coin’s path.
Warning Signs and When to Seek Medical Attention
While many swallowed quarters pass without issue, certain symptoms indicate a problem and require immediate medical attention. These warning signs suggest the quarter may be lodged or causing irritation within the digestive tract or, more rarely, the airway.
Serious indicators include:
Severe pain in the chest or abdomen
Persistent vomiting or difficulty breathing
Excessive drooling or an inability to swallow
A sensation that the object is stuck in the throat
Blood in vomit or stool
Development of a fever
Children, especially those under five years of age, are at a higher risk for complications due to their smaller airways and narrower digestive tracts. A quarter’s diameter of 24 mm is large enough to potentially get stuck in a child’s esophagus. If any of these symptoms appear after a quarter has been swallowed, it is advisable to seek emergency medical care promptly.
Medical Interventions
If a swallowed quarter does not pass naturally or if symptoms arise, medical intervention may become necessary. The most common procedure is an endoscopy, which involves inserting a thin, flexible tube (an endoscope) with a camera and light down the throat to visualize and remove the object.
During an endoscopic procedure, specialized tools can be passed through the endoscope to grasp and retrieve the quarter. This is typically performed under general anesthesia, particularly for children. In some cases, a Foley catheter or Magill forceps might be used, especially if the coin is lodged higher in the esophagus. Surgical removal is a rare measure, reserved for complicated situations where other methods have failed or significant damage has occurred.