Magnets ingestion in children

Patient Information Leaflet

Introduction

Neodymium magnets also known as neo magnet or Super strong rare -earth magnets are easily purchased and are promoted as adult desk toys/stress relievers. They very common and five to ten times stronger than ceramic magnets. They can be brightly coloured, be different shapes (balls, cylinders, discs.) or sizes usually less than 6mm in diameter.

Presentation

These can be accidently swallowed by children, and cause damage. Ingesting one magnet is unlikely to cause harm, however more than one can cause significant injury.

This advice is for parents/carers of children who have ingested super strong magnets and button batteries

Information on discharge

How should I care for my child at home?

The doctor has assessed your child and feels that it is safe for you to go home, A follow up repeat x-ray will be needed 6-12 hours to make sure it is passing through the tummy and bowel. If only one magnet has been ingested, it will pass through the tummy and out in their faeces (poo).  You do not need to check the faeces (poo), but if seeing the magnet come out would give you relief, then there is no harm in doing so.

Until your child has had a repeat xray remove any metalic objects like metal buttons or piercings nearby including belly button and other piercings close to the tummy.

What should I look out for at home?

Very rarely an object can become stuck in the tummy. Take your child to the Emergency Department IMMEDIATELY if they have any of the following:

• chest pain
• abdominal pain
• blood in vomit or poo
• Bleeding
• if your child has swallowed or inserted into ear, nose or mouth a button or coin battery you need to attend the Emergency Department
• concerns further eating or drinking magnet ingestion
• noisy breathing
• difficulty in breathing
• Wheezing
• drooling
• difficulty in swallowing

coughing / choking / gagging when eating or drinking.

If you have any questions, or if there is anything you do not understand, please contact the Russells Hall Hospital switchboard number on 01384 456111 and ask for the relevant department who issued this leaflet.

If you have any feedback on this patient information leaflet please email dgft.patient.information@nhs.net

This leaflet can be made available in large print, audio version and in other languages, please call 0800 073 0510.

Originator: Durga Young Date originated: January 2025 Review date: September 2027 Version: 1 DGH ref.: DGH/PIL/02226