Suggest Treatment For Accidental Ingestion Of Plastic

Posted on Sun, 6 Mar 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 6 Mar 2016 Answered on

Sat, 14 May 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, my daughter just swallowed a tiny piece of the hard plastic straw from this thing: http://www.claires.co.uk/studio-pets-rebel-drinks-cup/shop/fcp-product/47598

Answered by Dr. Dr. Klerida Shehu (33 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Following advice

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you for asking!
I read your query and understood your concerns.

Since the size of the swollen plastic is small you shouldn't worry to much it wouldn't cause any mayor complication on your daughter. However, it's recommended to bring her to the nearest ER to perform an urgent upper endoscopy. During the procedure the tiny piece plastic will be removed.

Hope this will be of help!
Wish you health!
Dr. Klerida

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Klerida Shehu (7 minutes later)

Okay, thank you. It has now been 2.5 hours since she thinks she swallowed it. Would an upper endoscopy still be effective or would it have disappeared into the rest of her digestive system by now?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Klerida Shehu (4 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Following advice...

Detailed Answer:
Hi back,

Yes, upper endoscopy will be effective because the piece will be on the stomach for at least next 4-6 hours.

If the object has left the stomach, than it will be eliminated will the stool and you shouldn't worry about.

Hope this will be of help!
Wish you health!
Dr. Klerida

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar