Button Batteries

Despite their size, button or coin cell batteries can cause a great deal of harm and even death if they are swallowed. If a lithium coin cell battery gets stuck in the food pipe, energy from the battery reacts with saliva to create caustic soda. This is the same chemical used to unblock drains!

This can burn through the food pipe, to the main artery and lead to catastrophic internal bleeding and death. The chemical reaction can happen in as little as two hours. However, sometimes it takes days or even weeks.

If you suspect your child has swallowed a battery you should seek medical advice immediately. Take them straight to A&E and tell the doctor.