When to Seek Medical Care

When any nonfood item is swallowed, call your doctor. A description of the item should be given.

• If no symptoms are present and your doctor is comfortable, a routine visit to the office suffices.

• If you have any symptoms or the object swallowed is concerning to your physician, your doctor will probably refer you to the emergency department.

If any symptoms continue and won't go away after swallowing an object or large piece of food, a trip to the local emergency department is prudent. If you have a similar object to the one swallowed, bring it along to help the doctor determine what to look for.