Battery Swallowed? First Aid & Hospital Treatment Steps

First Aid (Do Immediately)

  1. Do not panic; do not induce vomiting. Vomiting can worsen esophageal/stomach damage.
  2. Give a glass of milk or water to help neutralize battery acid.
  3. Seek emergency medical care immediately—even for small batteries.

At the Hospital

  1. X-ray to confirm battery location.
  2. If in esophagus: endoscopic removal.
  3. If in stomach: laxative to pass it naturally.
  4. Monitoring for complications (perforation, bleeding).

Most swallowed batteries pass without issue, but prompt evaluation is critical because serious complications can develop rapidly.

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