Question
My child has been acting up recently, crying and fussing without any apparent reason. The doctor couldn’t find any issues after examining them. I want to know what to do if my child accidentally swallows gum?
Answer
The gum base in gum is not easily digestible and is usually excreted with feces. At the same time, consuming some high-fiber foods can stimulate intestinal movement. Doctors point out that the inner wall of the human gastrointestinal tract is smooth and secretes a large amount of mucus, making it unlikely for gum to get stuck. Once swallowed, gum cannot be digested and will be expelled naturally without the need for surgery. However, for safety reasons, it’s best not to give children gum since it has no benefits and could cause serious consequences if inhaled into the airways. Additionally, if a child frequently chews gum, they may swallow too much air, leading to gastrointestinal bloating.