In a concerning trend observed across hospitals in the UAE, doctors are reporting an increase in cases where children unwittingly ingest small objects such as coins, batteries, and other items, posing serious health risks and requiring swift medical intervention.
According to healthcare professionals, ingesting foreign objects can lead to severe complications ranging from intestinal blockages to life-threatening injuries.
Recently, incidents at Thumbay University Hospital and Burjeel Hospital have highlighted the critical need for vigilance among parents and caregivers.
At Thumbay University Hospital, a seven-year-old Sudanese girl was rushed to the emergency department after swallowing three 1 dirham coins.
Although initially asymptomatic, an X-ray revealed that one coin had lodged in her esophagus while the others had progressed into her abdomen.
Doctors performed an emergency endoscopy to safely remove the coins, emphasizing the importance of immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.
Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Nabil Abdaziz Elshobary, a specialist at Thumbay University Hospital, underscored the risks associated with ingesting foreign objects, stating, “Sharp items like needles or fish bones can puncture the intestines, leading to serious infections and requiring urgent surgery.”
Similarly, at Burjeel Hospital in Abu Dhabi, an eight-year-old child was admitted after swallowing a lithium battery. While the battery did not obstruct the airway, gastroenterologists swiftly intervened with an endoscopic procedure to safely retrieve the object.
Dr. Magdi Mohamed, an emergency medicine consultant at Burjeel Hospital, emphasized the urgency of removing such objects promptly due to their potential chemical hazards.
The severity of each case depends on whether the foreign object has entered the airway or remains in the digestive tract. “Objects like batteries containing chemical materials pose immediate dangers and require urgent removal,” explained Dr. Mohamed.
For parents, recognizing the signs of ingestion and seeking medical help without delay are crucial. Dr. Elshobary advised, “Even if a child shows no immediate symptoms, seeking medical advice is essential as complications can arise suddenly.”
In cases where a child has swallowed an object and is not crying or speaking, Dr. Mohamed recommended performing CPR. “For infants, chest thrusts combined with back slaps can help dislodge the object and prevent further blockages,” he added.
The incidents serve as a stark reminder for parents to ensure a safe environment for children, free from small objects that could be swallowed accidentally. Vigilance and quick action are key to preventing potentially life-threatening situations.
Doctors across the UAE urge parents and caregivers to be proactive in child safety, keeping small objects out of reach and seeking medical advice immediately if ingestion is suspected. Early intervention can significantly reduce the risk of complications and ensure children’s well-being.
As the number of reported cases continues to rise, healthcare providers emphasize the importance of education and awareness campaigns to promote child safety and prevent future incidents of accidental ingestion.
In conclusion, while accidents can happen, timely medical response and preventive measures can make all the difference in safeguarding children from the dangers of ingesting foreign objects.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members