Faced with an increasing number of hospitalizations, Scottish doctors are warning parents of young children against swallowing or inhaling toys, especially Rainbow Loom bracelets.
The Rainbow looms, famous colorful bracelets, are also toys for young children who have the annoying habit of putting them everywhere except around their wrists. In the nose, in the ears. Alerted by this phenomenon, Scottish doctors express their concerns in an article published in The Journal of Laryngology and Otology.
At least 4 children in the emergency room per week
Emergency physicians at Monklands Hospital (Scotland) identify at least 4 cases of children every week having introduced a Rainbow Loom bracelet in the ears or nose. A problem that should not be taken lightly. “In the worst case scenario, it can block the airways, cause cardiac arrest and lead to death,” warns Dr Iain Bohler, one of the authors of the article. This is why doctors insist on the need for parents to be extremely vigilant with their children.
What to do when a child has swallowed an object?
“If your child swallows or puts any object into his cavities, contact the emergency room immediately,” warns Dr Bohler. In general, it is better to buy toys that are appropriate for the child’s age and that meet safety standards. Never let a child under the age of three play unsupervised and avoid leaving small objects within reach of your child (coins, marbles, small toys, batteries, pen caps, etc.). Call your doctor immediately, or go to the nearest emergency department if the child has swallowed a large, sharp or pointed object, if the object is stuck in the throat, if it is not visible. Emergency services are also essential when the child suddenly has difficulty breathing or if he complains of abdominal pain, fever or an incessant cough a few days after swallowing the object.
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