
Mom’s Heart-Wrenching Journey After Toddler Swallows Button Battery: ‘Recovery Has Been Torture’
2025-06-08
Author: Li
A Chilling Accident That Changed Everything
In October 2023, Kasey Allen's life took a terrifying turn when her 16-month-old son, Asa, swallowed a button battery. The seemingly ordinary day would spiral into a nightmare, changing their family forever.
The Frightening Symptoms
While tidying up their RV, Kasey was unaware of the danger lurking nearby. Her son grabbed a remote control, and after a series of unfortunate events, the small battery made its way into Asa’s mouth. Less than half an hour later, the innocent playtime turned serious as Asa began to show alarming symptoms: excessive drooling, unusual flushing, and fatigue.
"At first, I had no idea what was causing his distress," Kasey shared. "It wasn't until I noticed black flakes coming from his mouth that I realized we were in deep trouble." The alarming signs prompted an immediate trip to the emergency room.
Staggering Statistics on Battery Ingestion
According to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, over 3,500 button batteries are ingested each year in the U.S. Symptoms such as noisy breathing, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing can indicate serious danger when a child consumes one of these small lithium batteries.
A Long, Painful Recovery
Kasey described the recovery process as nothing short of exhausting. "It’s been long, disappointing, and extremely hard to watch our son endure this," she admitted. For months, Asa struggled with swallowing and required IV nutrition.
Kasey documented Asa's ordeal on TikTok, hoping to spread awareness about the dangers of button batteries. Her videos went viral, sharing both the struggles and triumphs of their recovery journey.
Hope in the Midst of Battle
Miraculously, after multiple treatments with a new doctor, Asa showed no signs of scar tissue in his esophagus. His journey involved around 27 dilation treatments to help with his swallowing issues, but encouragingly, he hasn't needed feeding assistance since his new treatment began.
Raising Awareness to Protect Others
Kasey passionately advocates for increased safety measures following their ordeal. "Be aware of electronics in your home that may contain button batteries, and ensure they are securely fastened,» she warns. She also shared a critical tip: if you suspect your child has swallowed a button battery, giving honey can help slow down the battery's corrosive effects—a lifesaving tip she wishes she had known sooner.
A Call to Action
Through her TikTok platform, Kasey has connected with countless parents, offering support and information. She urges others facing similar challenges to seek community and learn how to advocate fiercely for their children. "It’s vital to stay strong and informed," she emphasizes, hoping to prevent other families from experiencing their heart-wrenching journey.