What happens if you swallow a tongue ring?

In most cases, a swallowed tongue ring passes from the body via a bowel movement without incident. A tongue ring typically is designed in two parts, including a blunt component in the shape of a ball and a sharper post onto which the ball is attached.

Often, a person swallows only the blunt ball portion of a tongue ring, with the post remaining in place. Very rarely do any problems occur with the passing of the blunt element of a tongue ring. In some isolated incidents, the sharper post causes damage in the digestive system. If a tongue ring does not appear to pass with a bowel movement within a couple of days, or if a person experiences pain of any type, an individual must seek prompt medical attention.