Question
The child accidentally swallowed a small jade bead at around 8 pm on the 19th. The jade bead is about half the size of a coin. During the X-ray examination on that day, the bead was found in the stomach, and the doctor said there was a chance it could pass out naturally. However, after three days of stool tests, the jade bead was not found, and there were no foreign objects shown in the follow-up X-ray. Now, a week has passed, and the jade bead has not been expelled yet, but the child’s diet, defecation, and general condition are all normal. What should be done now? Is it possible that the foreign object is in the intestines but not detectable by X-ray?
Answer
After the baby accidentally swallowed a small jade bead with no symptoms, it usually can be excreted with stool. It has been ten days since then, so it is recommended to remain calm as the jade bead may have already passed out. As jade beads are smooth objects, they should be detectable in an X-ray if there is no intestinal inflammation. It is suggested to continue observing the child’s defecation status and pay attention to diet by consuming light foods and sufficient water. If there is continued concern, consider seeking medical advice for another examination.