Keeping kids safe: Beware of hidden holiday choking hazards

With the holiday season in full swing, batteries are everywhere: toys, decorations, musical greeting cards and more. It’s very quick and easy for kids, especially crawlers and toddlers, to snatch a battery from one of these items and swallow it.

The dangers of battery ingestion

Battery ingestion, whether of the coin-sized button variety or even bigger batteries like AAAs, is potentially very dangerous. The lodged battery emits a current that can result in a severe burn to the esophagus.

Sometimes it may not even be obvious at first that there is something wrong, but parents can watch out for signs and symptoms, including:

• Coughing/gagging
• Drooling
• Pain/discomfort/anxiousness
• Vomiting and/or vomiting blood
• Abdominal pain
• Chest pain
• Bloating

Batteries are not the only choking hazards around the house this time of year. Some other common high-risk items are ornaments, tree needles and candy.

When to seek medical care

If you suspect your child has swallowed a battery or any other dangerous item, take him or her to the emergency room immediately. Do not induce vomiting or have your child eat or drink anything until medically assessed.

Call 911 right away if your child cannot breathe and his or her lips are blue. You should also call 911 if you suspect your child has swallowed something, and he or she is vomiting blood.

Watch my recent TV interview on this topic to learn more.

Children's Wisconsin

Children's Wisconsin is the region's only independent health care system dedicated solely to the health and well-being of children. In Milwaukee and throughout the state, we provide kids and their families a wide range of care and support — everything from routine care for ear aches or sore throats to life saving advances and treatment options.