Swallowing a small foreign object, such as an earring, is a relatively common occurrence. While the ingestion can cause immediate anxiety, the majority of small, smooth objects successfully navigate the gastrointestinal (GI) tract without causing injury. The primary concern is the object’s size and shape, as these factors determine the potential for it to become lodged or cause complications within the digestive system. Monitoring the situation closely is the appropriate course of action, as the body is often capable of handling the ingestion naturally.
What to Do Immediately
The first response to swallowing an earring should be to remain calm and immediately assess the type of jewelry involved. A small, smooth post or ball backing is generally less concerning than a large hoop, a clasp, or a piece with sharp edges. If the person is coughing, choking, or experiencing difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical help instantly, as this suggests the object is lodged in the airway.
Once the airway is clear, do not attempt to induce vomiting; forcing the earring back up could cause serious damage to the esophagus, especially if it is sharp. Similarly, avoid administering laxatives, which can interfere with the normal movement of the bowel. Instead, contact a healthcare professional or poison control center for guidance, as they may recommend an X-ray to confirm the earring’s location and track its movement.
The Path Through the Body
After passing the throat, a small, blunt foreign object enters the stomach, where it is subjected to digestive acids before moving into the small intestine. The movement of the earring through the intestines is governed by peristalsis, the involuntary muscle contractions that propel contents through the GI tract. This natural process is responsible for moving the earring along the approximately 25-foot path.
The vast majority of ingested objects (80% to 90%) successfully pass through the entire digestive system without intervention. For an earring, spontaneous passage time is generally between four and six days, though it can take up to a week. During this time, monitoring the stool is necessary to confirm the object has been successfully expelled from the body.
Signs of Complication
While most ingested earrings pass without incident, certain symptoms warn that the object may be lodged or causing internal injury. These symptoms require immediate medical evaluation, as a retained object can lead to serious complications, such as perforation or obstruction. The esophagus is the most common site for impaction, particularly for objects that are long or wide.
Signs to watch for include severe, persistent abdominal or chest pain, which can indicate the earring is stuck or irritating the digestive tract lining. Persistent vomiting, especially if it contains blood, is a significant concern that suggests possible mucosal injury or a blockage. Other serious symptoms requiring emergency care include fever, bloody stools, or any difficulty swallowing saliva or breathing.
Professional Removal Methods
If an earring fails to pass or causes concerning symptoms, medical professionals have procedures to locate and remove the object. The most common intervention is an endoscopy, a minimally invasive procedure where a flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to view the esophagus and stomach. Specialized tools can be passed through the endoscope to grasp and remove the earring.
Endoscopic removal is typically performed if the object is sharp, has been retained in the stomach for longer than three to four weeks, or is causing erosive damage. In the rare event that the earring perforates the bowel wall or causes a complete obstruction, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgery is reserved for situations where the object cannot be safely removed endoscopically or when a life-threatening complication has developed.