| Definition: |
Poisoning from an overdose of sodium hypochlorite.
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| Alternative Names: |
Bleach; Clorox; Carrel-Dakin solution
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| Poisonous Ingredient: |
Sodium hypochlorite
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| Where Found: |
- Chemical used to add chlorine to swimming pools
- Some bleaching solutions
- Disinfectants
- Water purifiers
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.
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| Symptoms: |
- Body as a whole
- Pain in the mouth
- Possible burns on esophagus
- Respiratory
- Coughing (from the fumes)
- Possible aspiration into lungs
- Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
- Pain in the throat
- Burning, red eyes
- Gagging sensation
- Skin
- Irritation of the exposed area
- Burns
- Blistering
- Gastrointestinal
- Stomach or abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Heart and blood vessels
- Nervous system
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| Home Treatment: |
DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING.
If the chemical is on the skin or eyes, wash with lots of water.
If the chemical was swallowed, give milk or water for dilution.
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| Before Calling Emergency: |
Determine the following information:- The patient's age, weight, and condition
- The name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
- The time it was swallowed
- The amount swallowed
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| Poison Control, or a local emergency number: |
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. Take the container with you to the emergency room.
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| What to expect at the emergency room: |
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:
- Give milk or water.
- Treat the symptoms.
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| Expectations (prognosis): |
There is a good chance of recovery if proper treatment is given soon after the poison was swallowed.
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