Swallowed foreign body

Advice for patients

Most swallowed objects pass through the digestive system without any problems once they have reached the stomach, as they will have passed the narrowest part.

Batteries or multiple magnets have more potential for complications, therefore it is important to tell the doctor if it is possible that these items have been swallowed.

Today you or your child will have been assessed either by the use of a metal detector alone or in conjunction with an x-ray.

We are satisfied that the swallowed object has safely passed into the stomach and it should pass over the next few days.

Do I have to examine my or my child’s stool?

No, it is not necessary to examine the stool to ensure the object has passed.

What if I or my child have/has abdominal pain or vomiting?

Complications are very unlikely if the object has passed into the stomach but if symptoms develop, please return to the Emergency Department.

If you need this information in another language or format, please e-mail:

Translation.Services@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk