Question
A child accidentally swallowed a 1-cent coin last night on the 19th of this month. After swallowing, everything was normal; the child could eat and defecate, but the coin has not been seen to pass out yet. What should be done?
Answer
If the appetite is normal, there is no need to worry excessively. Generally, if there are any abnormalities after swallowing, they would affect appetite. It is recommended to first go to the hospital for a check-up to determine the location of the coin. If the coin is in the stomach, it can be removed through endoscopy or surgically. If it is in the intestines, then it needs to be waited for to pass out with the stool. Eating more vegetables like chives and celery can help wrap around the coin and enhance intestinal peristalsis, aiding in the coin’s excretion.