Children are known for being curious and they love to explore their surroundings which sometimes include putting everything in their mouth, including small objects that they come across.

Unfortunately, when it comes to batteries, it can have deadly consequences for children and can be a fatal mistake. Battery ingestion is common among children under the age of five, and it can cause serious health problems or even death if not treated quickly.

What happens when a battery is ingested?

The ingestion of batteries can cause serious damage to a child’s health. When a battery is swallowed, it can get stuck in the oesophagus, stomach or intestines, which can lead to tissue damage, perforation and even death.

The battery’s electrical current can also damage the tissue and cause chemical burns. The damage can occur in as little as two hours after ingestion, and the longer the battery remains in the body, the more severe the damage.

Types of batteries that are commonly ingested

There are a variety of batteries that children may come in contact with, but the most commonly ingested ones are:.

Lithium batteries
Button batteries
Alkaline batteries

Button batteries, also known as coin-shaped batteries, are particularly dangerous as they are small and can easily be swallowed by children.

These batteries can be found in a variety of small electronics such as remote controls, calculators, watches, and hearing aids. Lithium batteries are used in a variety of electronic devices from cell phones to pacemakers. Alkaline batteries can be found in a range of household items, including toys, flashlights, and remote controls.

Symptoms of battery ingestion

It can be challenging to identify the symptoms of battery ingestion, as they can vary from child to child. The symptoms will depend on the type of battery ingested, the location in the body it has become lodged and for how long it has been there.

However, some common symptoms of battery ingestion may include:.

Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Chest pain
Difficulty breathing
Fever
Diarrhoea
Bloody stools
Lethargy

What to do if a child ingests a battery

If you suspect that your child has ingested a battery, it’s essential to take immediate action. Call your local emergency number or take your child to the hospital immediately.

Don’t wait for the symptoms to appear as this can cause irreparable damage. Also, do not attempt to induce vomiting, as this can cause the battery to release more chemicals.

Doctors will perform a series of tests to locate the battery’s location and its impact on the child’s health.

Imaging tests, such as x-rays or CT scans, can help locate the battery in the child’s body or determine if it has already passed through the digestive system. Endoscopy, a procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is placed through the mouth or anus into the intestines, may be required to remove the battery.

The doctor will also assess the severity of the damage in the oesophagus, intestines or stomach, and decide if surgery is needed.

Preventing battery ingestion

Preventing battery ingestion is essential, particularly when it comes to young children. Here are some tips to follow:.

Always store batteries in a secure location that is out of reach of children.
Supervise children closely when they are playing with toys that contain batteries.
Teach your children not to play with batteries or electronic devices.
Never leave batteries on tables, counters, or floors where children can reach them.
Dispose of batteries properly. Button batteries should be taped and secured with duct tap and put into a plastic bag and stored safely away.

Conclusion

It’s essential to be aware of the dangers of battery ingestion in children. Prevention is key, and parents should be vigilant about keeping batteries away from children.

If you suspect that your child has ingested a battery, don’t wait for the symptoms to appear and take action immediately to prevent any further harm.