Poisoning: Household Hazards

Poisoning: household hazards

Symptoms of poisoning from household products primarily affect children and toddlers, and there are many possible sources of danger. But adults are not immune from poisoning either. Although few substances found in the average household lead to severe poisoning, it is important to act quickly. Here you will find information on what to do in individual cases.

If poisoning is suspected, the following applies in any case: Contact the poisoning information center +43 (0) 1 406 43 43 early to assess the risk.

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• more on the subject

• What to do in the event of poisoning with cleaning agents?
• What to do in case of poisoning with industrial cleaners?
• What to do in case of poisoning with descaler
• ">What to do in the event of poisoning with detergent & fabric softener?
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• What to do in case of poisoning with cosmetic products?
• What to do in case of poisoning with alcohol
• What to do in case of poisoning with glue
• Other products in the household

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The most important measure is to make your own household “safe for gifts”. For more information, see Poisoning: Prevention

Note The following information only relates to mistakenly ingested, very small amounts of the respective substances! Excessive intake in the event of intoxication or suicide is threatening in any case; the emergency number 144 (and, if necessary, the poisoning information center +43 (0) 1 406 43 43) must be dialed immediately.

What to do in the event of poisoning with cleaning agents?

All purpose cleaner

Are de facto used in every household and contain detergent, foam-forming substances (surfactants, soap). In most cases, it also contains low concentrations of solvents.

Symptoms: irritating to the mucous membranes, coughing and gastrointestinal complaints (nausea, vomiting) possible.

First aid:

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running water for about ten minutes; if symptoms persist, have an ophthalmologist check it.
• In case of skin contact: rinse with water, change soaked clothing.
• If you are unsure, contact the poison information center on +43 (0) 1 406 43 43.
• Check the packaging or label of the cleaning agent.

Toilet cleaner & toilet bowl stone

The properties are very dependent on the composition of the product. In WC-stones surfactants and fragrances are included, and therefore, they are usually not dangerous. In toilet cleaners, surfactants are mixed with citric or acetic acid. Most of the time the products only have irritating properties.

Symptoms: irritating to the mucous membranes, coughing and gastrointestinal complaints (nausea, vomiting) possible.

Formic acid or hydrochloric acid can rarely be added, especially in industrial products. These pose a significant risk potential.

First aid:

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running water for about ten minutes; if symptoms persist, have an ophthalmologist check it.
• In case of skin contact: rinse with water, change soaked clothing.
• If you are unsure, contact the poison information center on +43 (0) 1 406 43 43.
• Secure the packaging or label of the product.

Dishwashing detergent & dishwasher detergent

It is important to distinguish between manual detergents and dishwasher detergents. While liquid detergents mostly only contain surfactants and are therefore relatively harmless (see all-purpose cleaners), machine products contain irritating ingredients. These are used as tabs or gel.

Symptoms: Licking and nibbling usually do not lead to significant symptoms. Depending on the concentration of the ingredients, irritation may occur. Pain and burning in the mouth and throat, swelling, redness and gastrointestinal complaints are possible.

First aid:

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running water for approx. Ten minutes
• In case of skin contact: rinse with water, change soaked clothing.
• If you have complaints, contact the poison information center on +43 (0) 1 406 43 43.
• Ensure the packaging or label of the product. The further procedure depends on the ingredients of the product.

Glass & window cleaners

These contain surfactants (see all-purpose cleaners) and various solvents such as alcohols. As a rule, glass cleaners do not lead to severe poisoning but rather to symptoms similar to all-purpose cleaners.

Symptoms: irritation of the mucous membranes.

First aid:

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running water for about ten minutes; if symptoms persist, have an ophthalmologist check it.
• In case of skin contact: rinse with water, change soaked clothing.
• If you are unsure, contact the poison information center on +43 (0) 1 406 43 43.
• Secure the packaging or label of the product.

pipe cleaner

These are mainly used for blocked drainpipes. They can contain highly caustic alkalis such as caustic soda (caustic soda) and are often bottled as powder or granules.

Symptoms: Depending on the amount taken, severe and immediate pain, swelling and reddening of the affected skin or mucous membrane area, excessive salivation, vomiting and nausea can occur.

First aid:

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink a few sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
  • Contact the Poison Information Center immediately on +43 (0) 1 406 43 43.
  • If you experience life-threatening symptoms, dial 144 immediately.
  • Secure the packaging or label of the product / take a photo.
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running water for about ten minutes, then have an ophthalmologist checked.
• In case of skin contact: rinse with water, change soaked clothing.

What to do in case of poisoning with industrial cleaners?

Industrial cleaners can contain, for example, potassium or sodium hydroxide or toxic chemicals and can be extremely corrosive. These products have no place in the household!

Symptoms: Depending on the amount taken, severe and immediate pain, swelling and reddening of the affected skin or mucous membrane area, excessive salivation, vomiting and nausea can occur. Products with solvents can lead to drowsiness or even loss of consciousness.

Note Chemical burns to the esophagus can lead to scarred constrictions.

First aid:

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink a few sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
  • Contact the poison information center +43 (0) 1 406 43 43
  • If you experience life-threatening symptoms, dial 144 immediately.
  • Secure the packaging or label of the product.
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running water for about ten minutes, then have an ophthalmologist checked.
• In case of skin contact: rinse with water, change soaked clothing.

What to do in case of poisoning with descaler

These agents are used to descale, for example, coffee machines or kettles. Accidents mainly happen if the descaling liquid is forgotten in the device and drinks are then prepared - be careful, especially when preparing baby food!

Note Mark the kettle (eg with a sticky note) when the descaler has been added!

The components are mostly amidosulphuric, citric, possibly malic and lactic acid. Sometimes acetic acid is also used. These products are irritating when undiluted. Descalers are available in liquid or solid form. Call the poison information center if the labeling is unclear!

Symptoms: The effect is very dependent on the concentration of the mixture; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and pain are possible.

First aid:

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
  • Contact the poison information center +43 (0) 1 406 43 43.
  • Secure the packaging or label of the product.
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running water for about ten minutes; if symptoms persist, have an ophthalmologist check it.
• In case of skin contact: rinse with water, change soaked clothing.

What to do in the event of poisoning with detergent & fabric softener?

With these substances, too, the surfactants in various forms are in the foreground. In addition, they contain bleaching agents, fragrances and additives. The risk of poisoning is low.

Symptoms: Irritation of the mucous membranes, gastrointestinal complaints (nausea, vomiting) possible. Care should be taken with detergents in water-soluble film or gel capsules (pods, caps, tabs); They contain more concentrated liquid detergent, stronger symptoms are possible! There is also a risk of aspiration.

First aid:

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running water for about ten minutes; if symptoms persist, have an ophthalmologist check it.
• In case of skin contact: rinse with water, change soaked clothing.
• If you are unsure, contact the poison information center on +43 (0) 1 406 43 43.
• Have the cleaning agent packaging or label ready.

What to do in case of poisoning with cosmetic products?

nail polish

In the case of nail polishes, children usually only lick the brush, so the amount ingested is too small to cause poisoning.

Symptoms: irritation of the mucous membranes.

First aid:

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running water for about ten minutes; if symptoms persist, have an ophthalmologist check it.
• In case of skin contact: rinse with water and soap, do not use solvents or nail polish remover! Change soaked clothing if necessary.
• If you are unsure, contact the poison information center on +43 (0) 1 406 43 43.

nail polish remover

Symptoms: intense burning sensation on the mucous membranes, nausea, vomiting. Larger quantities may cause drowsiness, unsteadiness to walk and drowsiness.

First aid:

• If swallowed: rinse mouth with water, then drink water in sips (only if there is no drowsiness or drowsiness!). Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
  • Contact the poison information center +43 (0) 1 406 43 43.
  • If the symptoms are more severe than irritation of the mucous membranes, dial 144.
  • Ensure the packaging or label of the product.
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running water for about ten minutes; if symptoms persist, have an ophthalmologist check it.
• In case of skin contact: rinse with soap and water, take off contaminated clothing (vapors!).

Hair shampoo, shower gel, soap, bath additive

Symptoms: The foaming effect may lead to nausea with vomiting in the stomach.

First aid:

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running water for approx. Ten minutes.

Body powder

Talc-based powder can be dangerous if inhaled and the particles enter the airways. Babies and toddlers who, for example, play on their backs with a powder compact that opens are particularly affected.

Symptoms: coughing to breathing problems.

First aid:

If swallowed: clean oral cavity, then drink water in sips.

• If inhaled: risk of aspiration!
  • if there is no cough or only briefly cleared the throat: further observation at home,
  • if you cough heavily, call EMERGENCY 144 immediately.

If you are unsure, contact the poison information center on +43 (0) 1 406 43 43

Perfume & aftershave

The same procedure applies to perfume or aftershave as to alcohol (see below).

What to do in case of poisoning with alcohol

Colloquially, drinks with intoxicating effects are described as alcohol. However, alcohol is also contained in many household products, such as some cosmetics, alcohol, disinfectants and certain cleaning agents.

Potable alcohol (ethanol)

High-proof drinks such as vodka, schnapps or whiskey generally put off children because of the burning sensation on mucous membranes. Therefore, usually only one sip is drunk. Exceptions are liqueurs and cocktails.

Symptoms: Depending on the amount taken, nausea, vomiting, unsteady gait and possibly drowsiness may occur.

First aid:

• Give juice or tea sweetened with sugar to drink.
• Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
• If in doubt, contact the poisoning information center on +43 (0) 1 406 43 43 and check the packaging or label of the product.
• Dial the emergency number 144 for children with impaired consciousness.

Note A different procedure applies in the event of alcohol poisoning due to the ingestion of large amounts of alcohol! More on the topic: Poisoning: Alcohol & Drugs.

What to do in case of poisoning with glue

Accidents with adhesives particularly affect children and toddlers. A distinction is made between different products:

• All-purpose glue contains solvents such as alcohol, acetone or methyl ethyl ketone. The amounts that children swallow are usually harmless. However, if you sniff intentionally, there is a risk of drowsiness, dizziness, or nausea.
• Children's craft glue does not contain any solvents. In quantities that children usually try, it is completely harmless.
• Glue sticks contain, for example, sorbitol or polyvinylpyrrolidone and are harmless in small amounts.
• Superglue: With this product, the poisoning with ingredients is not in the foreground, as it hardens immediately. However, contact can result in sticking within seconds. The heat generated in the eye can also cause severe irritation. Bondings with superglue can neither be removed with solvents nor with petrol. Never use force to loosen stuck areas (especially eyelids)! There is a risk of injury.

First aid with all adhesives:

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
• Contact the poison information center +43 (0) 1 406 43 43.
• Secure the packaging or label of the product.
• In case of eye contact: rinse carefully under running lukewarm water for approx. Ten minutes, if symptoms persist have an ophthalmologist checked. A doctor must be consulted after eye contact with superglue!
• In case of skin contact: immediately wash skin with soap and water. Rub the skin area affected with superglue several times with body oil.

Other products in the household

Silica gel

The small packaged pellets to protect against moisture are used, for example, for sensitive devices, handbags or other everyday objects. They are completely non-toxic if swallowed and are excreted unchanged in the stool.

Cigarettes and cigarette butts

Cigarettes are often tasted by children, but poisoning is rare. Taking nicotine gum and nicotine patches can also cause discomfort in young children. Refill packs for e-cigarettes and chewing tobacco (e.g. snus) contain more and more easily absorbable nicotine.

Symptoms: There are usually no symptoms with small amounts. Possible complaints are nausea and vomiting. With larger amounts, diarrhea, restlessness, tremors, paleness and palpitations can occur.

First aid:

• If swallowed: clear your mouth, then drink sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
  • Contact the poison information center +43 (0) 1 406 43 43.
  • If you have severe symptoms, dial 144.
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running lukewarm water.

Essential oil, fragrance oil

Symptoms: irritation of the mucous membranes, nausea, vomiting, coughing

First aid:

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
  • Contact the poison information center +43 (0) 1 406 43 43.
  • If you have severe symptoms, dial 144.
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running lukewarm water; if symptoms persist, have an ophthalmologist checked.
• In case of skin contact: Wash skin with soap and water.

Lamp oil

This can be dangerous if tiny amounts get into the airways.

Symptoms: cough, shortness of breath and increased respiratory rate (danger of suffocation).

First aid:

If you have severe symptoms, dial 144

Mercury (clinical thermometer, energy-saving lamp)

Mercury is only found in the old clinical thermometers, today's thermometers with silver liquid contain the harmless Galinstan. Energy-saving lamps can also contain low concentrations of mercury.

In principle, mercury vapors are harmful to health, but the quantities contained in a clinical thermometer or an energy-saving lamp are too small to cause poisoning.

If a mercury thermometer or an energy-saving lamp breaks:

• Collect shards and mercury globules (eg with adhesive tape or two sheets of paper) and place in an airtight container (eg glass container, plastic bag); bring it to the problem collection point. Avoid vacuuming if possible only if manual removal is not possible; Then bring the vacuum cleaner bag to the hazardous waste.
• Ventilate the room well.
• If small amounts of mercury are swallowed, there is no risk of poisoning as it is hardly absorbed.
• Beware of skin and mucous membrane injuries!
• If you are unsure, contact the poison information center on +43 (0) 1 406 43 43.

Soap bubble solution

Symptoms: irritation of the mucous membranes, gastrointestinal complaints possible.

First aid:

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running lukewarm water for approx. Ten minutes; if symptoms persist, have an ophthalmologist check it.
• In case of skin contact: rinse with water, change soaked clothing.

Glow stick

Symptoms: irritation of the mucous membranes, slight gastrointestinal complaints possible.

First aid:

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running lukewarm water for approx. Ten minutes; if symptoms persist, have an ophthalmologist check it.
• In case of skin contact: rinse with water, change soaked clothing.

Match head

If swallowed, poisoning is not to be expected, drink a few sips of water.

Colors & pens

Materials such as watercolors, finger paints, crayons, felt-tip pens, ink, ballpoint pens etc. are harmless when ingested in small quantities. Maybe drink a few sips of water.

Note This does not apply to artist paints (e.g. acrylic paint, oil paint)! These can be corrosive and irritating to the mucous membranes. If you are unsure, contact the poison information center +43 (0) 1 406 43 43.

fertilizer

Chemical plant fertilizers are available in different versions with different ingredients. Accidents primarily happen when liquid fertilizer is forgotten, for example in watering cans, and thus gets into the hands of children.

Symptoms: mostly irritating to the mucous membranes, gastrointestinal complaints (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain).

First aid

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!
• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running lukewarm water for approx. Ten minutes; if symptoms persist, have an ophthalmologist check it.
• In case of skin contact: rinse with water, change soaked clothing.
• If you are unsure, contact the poison information center on +43 (0) 1 406 43 43.

Danger! Do not confuse it with pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, fungicides)! These are far more toxic and can damage mucous membranes and organs. Poisoning with these products can be life-threatening, emergency number 144 must be dialed in case of complaints!

petrol

Gasoline poisoning can result from inhaling gasoline vapors on the one hand and from swallowing gasoline on the other (eg when sucking in a blocked gasoline line).

Symptoms: Irritation of the mucous membranes, gastrointestinal complaints (belching, nausea, vomiting), coughing, shortness of breath and dizziness, intoxication up to drowsiness or unconsciousness.

First aid

• If swallowed: rinse out mouth with water, then drink sips of water. Do not induce vomiting under any circumstances!

  If coughing persists because aspiration is suspected, dial 144.

• In the event of eye contact: rinse carefully under running lukewarm water for approx. Ten minutes; if symptoms persist, have an ophthalmologist check it.
• In case of skin contact: rinse with water and soap, change soaked clothing.