If your child has swallowed a coin, it’s natural to be concerned. Here’s what to do:
- Choking or breathing difficulties: If your child is coughing forcefully, gagging, drooling, struggling to breathe or speak, or turning pale or blue, these are serious signs that the airway may be blocked.
- Difficulty swallowing or drooling: If the coin is lodged in the esophagus, your child may exhibit these symptoms, as well as throat or chest pain.
- Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately if your child is choking or having difficulty breathing.
- Go to the nearest emergency room if your child has difficulty swallowing, is drooling, refusing to eat or drink, or showing any signs of distress after swallowing a coin.
- Consult with your pediatrician or healthcare provider: Even if your child appears well, a medical evaluation is recommended to determine the coin’s location and potential risks.
- Monitor your child’s stools: The coin may pass naturally in the stools within a few days to a week.
- Do not induce vomiting or administer laxatives: These actions are not recommended as they can potentially cause further complications.
- Stay calm: Panicking can make it harder to assess and manage the situation.
- Coins made with zinc (pennies after 1982) can be corrosive: The zinc can react with stomach acid and cause potential stomach irritation or ulceration if the penny is damaged.
- Button batteries are dangerous: If you suspect your child swallowed a button battery (e.g., from a remote or toy), seek immediate medical attention as they can cause serious injury within hours.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for guidance specific to your child’s situation.
Should I worry if my child swallows a coin?
Thanks for asking. Children sometimes swallow things such as coins, small toys or beads. Most objects that children swallow are harmless, and are passed through the digestive system and out with the faeces (poo) without any problem. Sometimes, swallowed objects get stuck in the oesophagus (food pipe) and may not pass into the stomach.
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 does it take for a swallowed coin to come out?
I can help with that. Self-care. Most swallowed objects are harmless and will pass through the digestive system without causing any harm. Studies suggest that it takes about 3 to 5 days for the object to pass out into the stool (poo).
How long does it take for a coin to pass?
I can help with that. Small, disc-shaped batteries, coins, blunt and benign objects: If such objects can be passed naturally, they usually exit the body within 1–2 weeks without any complications. The likelihood of tearing to the intestinal walls or other complications is less than 1%.