Oklahoma Poison Center Issues Holiday Safety Warning on Button Batteries and Other Seasonal Dangers

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OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Poison Center is reminding families that button batteries remain one of the most dangerous holiday hazards. Ingestion can cause severe internal burns, permanent injury or death. More than 3,400 people swallow button batteries each year, most of them children.

Button Batteries: Small Size, Serious Risk

These coin-shaped batteries are found in many household and holiday items, including greeting cards, remote controls, flameless candles, watches, toys and ornaments. Once swallowed, a button battery can lodge in the esophagus. Within two hours, it may generate an electrical current that causes tissue burns. Symptoms may be subtle or delayed, and many cases are unwitnessed. Signs include drooling, coughing, vomiting, chest discomfort, difficulty swallowing and bloody stool.

Any of these symptoms, even without a known ingestion, require immediate medical evaluation. Do not induce vomiting or give anything by mouth unless instructed and seek emergency care immediately.

Other Seasonal Hazards

Holiday Plants:

Most poinsettia exposures cause only mild stomach upset, but holly, mistletoe, Jerusalem cherry and bittersweet nightshade can cause vomiting, heart-rate changes and, in rare cases, more serious toxicity. Keep decorative plants out of reach of children and pets.

Medications, Nicotine, Alcohol and Edibles:

Holiday gatherings often mean medications, nicotine products, cannabis edibles and alcohol are left accessible.

Alcohol:

Even small amounts can cause seizures, breathing problems or unconsciousness in children.

Nicotine (including vapes and e-liquids):

Concentrated nicotine can be life-threatening.

Marijuana Edibles:

Marijuana edibles may resemble treats yet can cause significant symptoms in children. Store edibles locked away and in their original packaging.

Medications:

Visiting relatives’ pill organizers and prescriptions are a common source of exposure. Ask guests to store bags and purses out of reach.

Carbon Monoxide:

Increased use of ovens, fireplaces and furnaces raises the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is odorless and colorless but can cause headache, dizziness, vomiting, weakness, confusion and, in severe cases, death. Ensure working CO detectors and proper ventilation. Never use outdoor appliances to heat indoors.

“Families often see the holidays as a time to relax, and they should,” said Kristie Edelen, Pharm.D, managing director of the Oklahoma Poison Center. “But when something goes wrong, our toxicology experts are only a phone call away and can help determine if a situation is serious or manageable at home.”

For any exposure or concern, call the Oklahoma Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for free, confidential help available 24/7.