The esophagus is the tube that leads from the mouth down to the stomach. It’s common for babies and toddlers to put objects in their mouths. If an object is swallowed, it can get stuck in the esophagus. This is called an esophageal foreign body.
This problem occurs mostly in children ages 6 months to 4 years. The most common objects that children swallow include coins, toy parts, batteries, or pins. Some foods can also get stuck in the esophagus. These include hard candy, grapes, popcorn, hot dog pieces, and raisins. Button batteries, often found in remote controls, are of major concern. If they become lodged in the esophagus, they can wear away the esophageal wall within hours. If you suspect your child may have swallowed a button battery, seek medical care right away.
High-powered magnets can also wear through the esophagus wall if swallowed. They also need to be treated right away
An object stuck in the esophagus can cause trouble swallowing. The child may drool, vomit, or refuse to eat. They may complain of chest pain, neck pain, or a feeling of something stuck in the throat. The child may have general symptoms, such as some drooling, but not appear to be in distress. If the object is not removed, it may injure the esophagus. This can make your child very ill.
The healthcare provider will often make a diagnosis through a health history and physical exam. But sometimes your child may need imaging studies.
A procedure called endoscopy may need to be done to look at and remove the object. To do this, a long, thin tube with a tiny camera is used. This is an endoscope. It is put into the child’s throat. In very rare cases, a child may need surgery. Once the object is removed, no other treatment is likely needed.
Home care
If the stuck object caused damage to the esophagus, you will be told how to care for your child during healing. Follow these instructions carefully.
Prevention in babies and toddlers
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Supervise your child during meals. Children should sit down to eat. Cut food in small pieces. Encourage children to chew food well before swallowing. For children under age 4, don’t feed them nuts, popcorn, grapes, or other foods that might be swallowed whole.
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Don’t give babies and toddlers toys with small, removable parts. Check toys often for loose or broken parts.
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Check each room in the house often for small objects such as buttons, coins, and toy parts. Store batteries and other dangerous objects in a locked cabinet or out of reach.
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Because children learn by watching others, don’t put toothpicks, pins, or any sharp objects between your lips or in your mouth.
Prevention in older children
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Supervise your child during meals. Children should sit down to eat. Teach your child to take small bites and to chew food well before swallowing.
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Tell your child not to put pencils, beads, crayons, erasers, or other nonfood items in the mouth.
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Teach children not to swallow gum.
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Because children learn by watching others, don’t put toothpicks, pins, or any sharp objects between your lips or in your mouth.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your child’s healthcare provider as advised.
When to seek medical advice
Call your child's healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:
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Fever
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Symptoms that come back
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Constipation (unable to move bowels)
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Vomiting
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Persistent cough
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Trouble swallowing
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Refusing or not wanting to eat (food avoidance)
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Pain in the esophagus
Call 911
Call
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Blood in the stool
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Vomiting blood
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Difficulty breathing
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Sudden or severe worsening of chest or esophageal pain
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Sudden or severe worsening of abdominal pain, distension, or bloating
Author: Wheeler, Brooke
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
