What will happen if you accidentally swallow a staple?

1. Esophagus: As the staple moves down the esophagus, it can cause irritation and discomfort. There is a risk of the staple getting stuck in the esophagus, leading to difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), pain, and the sensation of something lodged in the throat.

2. Stomach: Once the staple reaches the stomach, it may pass through without causing significant problems. However, there is a chance that the sharp edges of the staple could cause irritation, inflammation, or even perforation of the stomach lining.

3. Small Intestine: The staple can continue moving through the small intestine. In most cases, it will likely pass through without complications. However, there is a small risk of the staple damaging the delicate tissues of the small intestine, leading to inflammation or obstruction.

4. Large Intestine (Colon): If the staple successfully passes through the small intestine, it will make its way to the large intestine. Similar to the small intestine, the staple can usually pass through without causing issues. However, there is a risk of it causing injury to the colonic mucosa, resulting in abdominal pain, blood in the stool, or alterations in bowel movements.

5. Excretion: If the staple successfully navigates the entire digestive tract without causing any complications, it will eventually be excreted in the stool.

It's important to note that swallowing a staple carries the potential for serious complications. While it is possible for the staple to pass through without causing any problems, there is always a risk of injury to the digestive tract. If you have accidentally swallowed a staple, it is recommended to seek medical advice immediately. The doctor may perform necessary examinations, such as X-rays or endoscopy, to assess the location of the staple and determine the appropriate course of action. Self-care measures might not be sufficient to address the potential risks associated with swallowing a sharp object.