In most cases, if a child swallows a coin and is asymptomatic, the coin will pass through their digestive system and be expelled in their stool within a few days . Some sources suggest it might take as long as a week or more to pass.
However, it’s crucial to consult with your child’s pediatrician or go to the emergency room immediately if your child experiences any of the following symptoms:
- Breathing problems: Coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.
- Difficulty swallowing: Drooling, gagging, refusal to eat or drink, or pain in the chest or neck.
- Stomach pain or vomiting.
- Bloody stools.
- The coin hasn’t passed after 3 days.
- The child is under 2 years old.
- The coin is larger than a quarter.
Important considerations:
- Don’t try to make your child vomit as this could worsen the situation.
- Don’t give laxatives.
- Avoid forcing the child to eat or drink immediately after swallowing the coin.
- Keep an eye on the child’s stools to confirm the passage of the coin.
While coins usually pass without incident, complications can occur, such as the coin getting stuck in the esophagus or intestines, causing obstruction or injury. In rare cases, if the coin remains in the stomach for an extended time, it might lead to metal poisoning, although this is uncommon. Prompt medical attention is vital if any of these complications are suspected.
Should I take my kid to the ER if he swallowed a coin?
From my experience, “If your child has swallowed a penny, or any coin, take her to your pediatrician or the emergency room right away,” says Charles Howell, MD, a pediatric surgeon at MCG Children’s Hospital, in Augusta, Georgia.
What shall I do if my child swallows a coin?
Great question! If your child has no symptoms and is well you could speak to NHS 111 about what to do next. Act quickly to get your child to A&E if you think they have swallowed something harmful. If possible, write down the name of whatever you think your child has swallowed so you can tell the doctor.
How to remove coin from child’s stomach?
In most cases, items swallowed by children can be removed with an endoscopic procedure. A thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera and light attached at the end is carefully inserted in the child’s mouth and into the gastrointestinal tract during this minimally-invasive procedure.
How long can a coin stay in the esophagus?
Unless choking occurs, swallowing a single coin is unlikely to result in death. Coins that are removed from the esophagus within 24 hours of swallowing are not likely to cause permanent tissue damage, but serious internal injuries can occur if coins remain in the esophagus for longer periods of time.