What Happens When You Swallow Batteries?
Swallowing a battery, particularly a small button or coin cell battery, is a significant medical emergency. These compact batteries are easily ingested, posing a particular hazard to young children who might mistake them for toys or candy. This can lead to severe and rapid internal damage. Immediate medical attention is critical when battery ingestion is suspected.
How Batteries Cause Harm
When a battery is swallowed, its primary danger stems from an electrochemical reaction. Upon contact with moist tissues, the battery generates an electrical current. This current breaks down water molecules, producing hydroxide ions at the negative pole. The accumulation of these ions creates a highly alkaline (basic) environment, leading to a caustic chemical burn.
This process causes rapid tissue necrosis, the death of cells and tissues. The resulting damage can extend through the esophageal wall, potentially causing perforations and fistulas to adjacent structures. While electrical discharge contributes to some cellular disruption, most harm comes from this localized chemical burn.
Recognizing Ingestion Signs
Identifying battery ingestion can be challenging because symptoms are often non-specific and can be delayed for hours or even days. In young children, signs might include sudden irritability or a refusal to eat solid foods. Common indications of a swallowed battery involve coughing, gagging, or excessive drooling.
Individuals might experience difficulty or pain when swallowing. Other symptoms can include poor appetite, fever, or unexplained abdominal pain. Consider battery ingestion even if a child does not present with clear symptoms, especially if a battery-powered device is found open or a battery is missing from its usual place.
Immediate Response and Emergency Care
If battery ingestion is suspected or confirmed, immediate action is critical. Seek emergency medical attention without delay, either by calling 911 or proceeding to the nearest emergency room. The longer a battery remains lodged, the greater the potential for severe injury. Avoid inducing vomiting, eating, or drinking anything unless specifically instructed by a medical professional or a poison control center. Contact the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for immediate guidance.
Medical Procedures and Healing
Upon arrival at a medical facility, diagnostic imaging, such as an X-ray, is used to locate the battery. Medical professionals then remove the battery using an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a camera and tools. This procedure allows for visualization and retrieval without open surgery.
Even after successful removal, the affected area requires careful monitoring due to potential ongoing damage. Complications can include esophageal strictures, vocal cord paralysis, or, in severe cases, erosion into major blood vessels. The healing process can be prolonged and may involve further medical interventions to address lingering damage.
Strategies for Prevention
Preventing battery ingestion requires proactive measures, particularly in homes with young children. All batteries should be stored out of sight and reach of children. Utilize child-resistant containers for spare batteries.
Ensure battery compartments on electronic devices are securely fastened, ideally with screws, to prevent easy access. Used batteries, which still pose a risk, should be disposed of immediately and safely. Educating all caregivers about the dangers of battery ingestion is important for safeguarding against this hazard.