Swallowing two or more small magnets can twist and tear a child's intestines
Do this instead
- Keep small magnet sets out of the house with young kidsDesk toys and magnetic balls are the usual culprits.
- Check magnetic toys for loose or broken piecesCount the pieces after play.
- Get medical help right away if one may be swallowedDon't wait for symptoms.
The short version
Strong, tiny magnets are easy to swallow. If a child swallows more than one, the magnets can pull toward each other through the gut, twisting it and causing blockages or tears that often need emergency surgery.
The evidence
Health Canada warns that multiple swallowed magnets can attract each other inside the intestines, causing twisting, blockages or tears. These injuries have often required emergency surgery and can have long-term effects.[1]
Health Canada has pulled several magnet sets sold online for exceeding the magnetic force allowed under Canada's Toys Regulations.[1]
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