Esophageal Foreign Body in Children
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
An esophageal foreign body is an object your child swallowed that got stuck in his or her esophagus (throat). Coins, button batteries, small toys, and screws are commonly swallowed objects. A piece of food or a fish bone can also become stuck in your child's esophagus.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- Your child has chest or abdominal pain.
- Your child is choking.
Return to the emergency department if:
- Your child has a fever.
- Your child's vomit is bloody.
- Your child's bowel movement is black or bloody.
- Your child has trouble swallowing or breathing.
Call your child's doctor if:
- The object has not come out within 3 days.
- You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.
Look for the object in your child's bowel movements:
Search for the coin, battery, or other small, smooth object each time your child has a bowel movement. Do not give your child laxatives or stool softeners. Do not force your child to vomit.
Prevent another esophageal foreign body:
- Never leave any small item anywhere your child can reach it. Examples of small items include coins, earrings, small toys, batteries, and magnets. Keep nails and screws away from young children. Count them before and after you finish a project.
- Teach older children to keep small toys away from babies and toddlers. Marbles are especially easy for babies to swallow.
- Keep all medicines safely away from children. Keep medicines in childproof containers. Store medicines in a cabinet or similar place that can be secured with a childproof lock.
If you think your child swallowed another foreign body:
- Do not stick your finger into your child's throat to try and remove an object. This could push the object even deeper.
- Do tell your child to cough if he or she is old enough to understand. He or she may be able to cough out the object.
Follow up with your child's doctor as directed:
Your child may need to return for x-rays or other tests. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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