Without treatment, sharp objects can damage parts of the gastrointestinal tract and cause major bleeding. Other objects can block part of the GI tract. If the swallowed object has not been removed, you should check your stools to make sure it passes. Putting the stool in a strainer and running water over it may make the job easier. Eat a high-fiber diet until you pass the object.
Good choices are whole grain bread, oatmeal and bran cereals, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
You may use milk of magnesia to help move the object through your intestines. Do NOT take any other laxatives. If the object doesn't pass, you may need more x-rays and other tests. You do not see the swallowed object in your stool within a few days. You start coughing, wheezing, or breathing noisily.