Button batteries
Alternate Names : Swallowing batteries
Definition
Button batteries are tiny, round batteries usually used to power watches and hearing aids. Children often accidentally swallow these batteries or put up them up their nose, where the battery can be further breathed in (inhaled). This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
Where Found
- Calculators
- Cameras
- Hearing aids
- Penlights
- Watches
Symptoms & Signs
If a person puts the battery up the nose and breathes it further in, the following symptoms may occur: - Breathing problems
- Cough
- Pneumonia (if the battery goes unnoticed)
- Possible complete respiratory failure
A swallowed battery may cause no symptoms at all, but if it becomes stuck in the esophagus or stomach, the following symptoms may occur: - Abdominal pain
- Bloody stools
- Cardiovascular collapse (shock)
- Chest pain
- Gastrointestinal inflammation
- Hole in the esophagus
- Nausea
- Metallic taste
- Vomiting (possibly bloody)
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