Pharmacie Kennedy Mulhouse

Small magnets: why is swallowing them dangerous?

Swallowed magnets can attract through the bowel. Check toys and desk gadgets accessible to children.

Editorial illustration of a health discussion, not a depiction of the pharmacy’s actual premises.
Editorial illustration — Kennedy Pharmacy Mulhouse

General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.

If a magnet is swallowed, seek medical attention immediately, as DGCCRF advises. Do not assume that a small magnetic ball is harmless.

Several magnets can attract across bowel walls, causing obstruction or perforation. The risk differs from that of a small inert object.

Some toys contain magnets that may detach. Adult stress-relief gadgets may also contain small magnetic balls.

Keep these items away from young children. An adult product does not become a toy because it looks entertaining.

For toys, check CE marking, age recommendations and warnings. Choose for the child’s abilities without ignoring the minimum age.

Before children visit, identify accessible magnetic objects. Prevent access beforehand; after ingestion, medical advice takes priority.

Sources

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