They are in hearing aids, watches, calculators, small toys, books, cameras and penlights. Children can easily swallow them because of their size and availability. They are called “button batteries” and they can be dangerous.
“Not only are button batteries a choking hazard, but if the battery fluids leak, they can erode tissues in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract,” said Susan Hirtz, manager of Texas Children’s Center for Childhood Injury Prevention. “Fluid from the battery can eat through the lining of the stomach, causing abdominal pain and tenderness, nausea and fever.”
Each year, nearly 2,000 people swallow button batteries – 62 percent are children under the age of 5, with the peak incidence being between 1 and 2 years of age. Close to half of ingested batteries are intended for hearing aids; another 12 percent are intended for games and toys.
“While most swallowed button batteries pass through the GI tract, this is an important hazard for parents to be aware of,” said Hirtz.
If a child does swallow a button battery, Hirtz recommends the following:
- Seek medical care immediately
- Do not induce vomiting
- If any of the fluids from the leaking batteries get on the skin or eyes, flush with water for 15 minutes
- Have the child drink water or milk immediately after swallowing the battery
Be aware that children might also place button batteries in their ears or in their noses. This, too, can cause injury. Immediate removal is vital to prevent severe damage. Seek medical treatment first before using nose or eardrops to dislodge the battery.
