Swallowed Foreign Objects

It’s not uncommon to accidentally swallow a foreign object (i.e., something other than food) at some point. In some cases, a foreign object can pass through the body without causing any problems. However, if something gets lodged in your esophagus or contains dangerous materials (such as certain types of batteries), it can cause a dangerous blockage or tear.

Here’s what to do if you or someone else swallows a foreign object, including symptoms to watch for and when to seek emergency care.