TL;DR
For a quick overview on the subject, check out this video by one of Family Shapes' favorite pediatricians on social media, Dr. Lauren Hughes. Dr Hughes, who shares valuable health tips for parents in a funny and relatable way on her Instagram profile @bloomdpc, recently posted a video highlighting the dangers of button batteries.
Why Are Button Batteries So Dangerous?
Button batteries—those small, coin-shaped batteries often found in remote controls, toys, greeting cards, and other electronic devices—are especially dangerous if swallowed or inserted into the nose or ears by a young child. The danger is twofold: the physical blockage they cause, and more alarmingly, the chemical reaction they can initiate.
When a button battery gets lodged in the throat, it reacts with saliva to create an electric current. This reaction generates hydroxide, a highly caustic chemical, which can burn through tissue and cause severe internal injuries within hours. The damage can lead to perforations in the esophagus, life-threatening internal bleeding, and other long-term complications. Tragically, many parents may not even realize their child has swallowed a battery until symptoms like vomiting, coughing, or drooling appear—often after significant damage has already occurred.
The Risks of Lithium Batteries
Similar to button batteries, larger lithium batteries—commonly used in smartphones, tablets, and other devices—pose significant risks if a child manages to access and ingest them. While lithium batteries may not get lodged as easily as button batteries, the chemicals inside are highly toxic and can cause poisoning if the battery casing is punctured or leaks.
Signs Your Child Might Have Swallowed a Battery
The symptoms of battery ingestion can be subtle, making it difficult for parents to recognize what has happened. Look out for:
- Excessive drooling or difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting, especially if it is bloody
- Persistent coughing or wheezing
- Chest pain or discomfort (older children may be able to express this)
If you suspect your child has swallowed a button battery, seek emergency medical help immediately. Time is critical in these situations, as damage can begin within two hours.
Prevention Tips for Parents and Caregivers
The best way to keep your children safe is through prevention. Here are some essential tips to reduce the risk of battery-related accidents:
- Secure Battery Compartments: Ensure that all battery compartments in household items are securely fastened. Use tape to reinforce them if necessary, and check regularly to ensure they stay secure.
- Store Batteries Out of Reach: Keep all spare batteries, as well as items containing easily accessible batteries, out of reach and out of sight of children. A locked cabinet is ideal for storage.
- Be Extra Cautious with Loose Batteries: Loose batteries are the most dangerous. Never leave them on counters, tables, or in drawers where a curious child could easily find them.
- Educate Family and Caregivers: Make sure that everyone in your household, as well as babysitters and other caregivers, knows the dangers of button and lithium batteries. Awareness is the first step to prevention.
- Opt for Child-Safe Products: Whenever possible, choose products with child-resistant battery compartments. Many manufacturers are recognizing this danger and are taking steps to make their products safer.
What To Do in Case of an Emergency
If you suspect that your child has swallowed a button or lithium battery, do not induce vomiting or give them food or drink. Go to the nearest emergency room immediately or call your local emergency services. It’s also helpful to know the National Battery Ingestion Hotline number: (800) 498-8666. The quicker you act, the better the chances are for minimizing serious injury.
Resources
- National Battery Ingestion Hotline - Information and emergency help for battery ingestion cases.
- Safe Kids Worldwide - Tips on keeping your home safe for children, including battery safety.
- Poison Control - Information on what to do if your child swallows a battery.
- Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) - Safety education on button batteries and child safety.
Raising Awareness Can Save Lives
Many parents are unaware of the severe risks that button and lithium batteries pose to children, which is why spreading awareness is crucial. By taking simple precautions at home and educating those around us, we can reduce the number of accidents and help keep our children safe.
Remember: Taking the time to secure household items, educate caregivers, and keep these small yet dangerous objects away from your child can prevent a devastating accident.
If you found this information helpful, consider sharing it with other parents and caregivers. Together, we can help keep our little ones safe.