What Does One Do If Their Child Has Swallowed A Battery ?

Posted on Mon, 29 Aug 2011

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : My 10 month old put a battery in her mouth 4 hours ago. She went to bed fine but woke up screaming and now coughing....do I need to worry? She went back to sleep now but not sure what I should do!

Answered by Dr. Robert Galamaga (3 hours later)

Hello and thanks for the query.

As long as the battery was not leaking any content such as acid material there should be no problem. Sometimes a battery could lead to a small electric shock type reaction if put in the mouth. Beyond this there is usually no need for concern unless someone swallows the battery.

I don't think coughing was related to the battery in the mouth either. This was likely a coincidental symptom.

Let me reassure you that you should not have anything to worry about at this time. Continue to observe her and she should be fine.

Thanks again for the query. I hope my answer was reassuring, informative and helpful. If you have any additional concerns I would be happy to address them.

Sincerely,

Dr. Galamaga

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T