Swallowed It! When to Worry and What to Do

Kids are endlessly curious—and somehow always getting into things. But what should you do if your child swallows something they shouldn’t? On this episode of Young & Healthy, host Bo McMillan sits down with pediatric GI specialist, Dr. Alex Nasr, to talk through what parents and caregivers need to know in these scary moments. 

Dr. Nasr dives into the most common objects kids swallow—coins, batteries, magnets and the newest shiny craze, water beads. He explains why batteries are especially dangerous and what steps to take if you suspect your child has swallowed a foreign object. Listeners will learn when it’s time to visit urgent care or the emergency room, and what treatment to expect. Plus, Bo and Dr. Nasr share practical tips to help prevent kids swallowing things they shouldn’t—and why it can be more common during the holidays. 

So, grab your headphones (wired ones, if you can) and tune in to this vital conversation to help keep your family safe and healthy. 

Resources: 

To learn more about the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC) at Cincinnati Children’s, visit https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/service/d/dpic   

For free, confidential assistance 24/7/365, please call 1-800-222-1222 to speak with an expert at Ohio Poison Centers.