Button Battery Danger: Girl's Critical Condition

0:00It's March 26th. From your city to your ears, this is Durham News Today, powered by AI. I'm Cory with the story. A four-year-old girl from California is in critical condition in a pediatric intensive care unit after swallowing a button battery. Camila Romero was rushed to Loma Linda University Children's Hospital on March 8th with flu-like symptoms such as cough, fever, and trouble breathing. Doctors initially treated her for a virus, but an X-ray revealed the battery stuck in her airway. The battery caused serious damage by eroding her esophagus and surrounding tissues, leading to inflammation that worsened her respiratory issues. Surgeons removed it, but she remains sedated as her body fights both the injury and the virus. Her parents were stunned since they had no idea about button batteries in their home and no toys using them. Every year, more than 3,500 people in the United States swallow these small coins found in remote, toys, and jewelry, and they can lead to severe or even fatal harm over time.

1:04Camila's doctors describe her outlook as guarded, with a long road to healing ahead if everything aligns perfectly. Meanwhile, family members launched an online fundraiser to cover medical and living costs during her stay. This case highlights the hidden risks in everyday items, urging parents everywhere to inspect toys and gadgets closely for these dangers before, handing them to young kids.