A Queensland toddler has undergone emergency surgery after swallowing several small but powerful magnets, sparking warnings from doctors about the hidden dangers of magnetic toys.
The 18-month-old child was rushed to hospital after parents noticed signs of distress. Scans revealed multiple magnets lodged in the toddler's digestive system, creating a potentially life-threatening situation.
Emergency Intervention Required
Pediatric surgeons performed an urgent procedure to remove the hazardous objects. "When multiple magnets are swallowed, they can attract each other through intestinal walls, causing serious damage," explained Dr. Sarah Wilkinson, a pediatric specialist at Queensland Children's Hospital.
Silent Danger in Homes
The incident has prompted health professionals to issue fresh warnings about household items that pose choking hazards. "These small, powerful magnets are particularly dangerous because they don't always cause immediate symptoms," Dr. Wilkinson added.
Common household items containing these hazardous magnets include:
- Magnetic building toys
- Refrigerator magnets
- Jewelry with magnetic clasps
- Office supplies
Prevention Better Than Cure
Child safety experts recommend:
- Regularly checking toys for loose parts
- Keeping small magnetic items out of reach
- Supervising playtime with construction toys
- Learning first aid for choking incidents
The Queensland family has asked to share their story to raise awareness among other parents about this often-overlooked household danger.
