What happens if you drink sulfuric acid?

Nov 25, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Shuwen

Introduction

Drinking sulfuric acid may corrode the esophagus and gastrointestinal tract; in severe cases, it can even lead to death. Sulfuric acid is a strong acid with highly corrosive properties. Accidental ingestion can cause significant corrosion of the esophagus and gastrointestinal tract, resulting in burns to the mucous membranes of the esophagus and intestines. Ingesting a large amount may also damage internal organs.

Drinking sulfuric acid may corrode the esophagus and gastrointestinal tract, and in severe cases, it can even lead to death.

Sulfuric acid is a strong acid with powerful corrosive properties. Accidental ingestion can severely damage the esophagus and gastrointestinal tract, burning the mucous membranes of the esophagus and intestines, causing significant mucosal injury and intense discomfort for the patient. Ingesting a large amount of sulfuric acid may also damage internal organs and, in severe cases, result in death. If sulfuric acid is accidentally ingested, immediate medical attention is essential. Treatments may include inducing vomiting, gastric lavage, or intestinal irrigation, along with medications prescribed by a doctor to neutralize the acid and protect the gastric mucosa. Commonly used medications include magnesium hydroxide suspension and bismuth potassium citrate.

After accidental ingestion of sulfuric acid, prompt examination and treatment are crucial. During recovery, patients should consume liquid or semi-liquid foods and avoid items that are overly acidic, sweet, or hot, which could further irritate the mucosa and worsen discomfort.

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Vasculitis is a common disease, and its five major causes include immune system disorders, infections, genetic factors, antibodies, and lymphocytes. Vasculitis may result from immune system dysfunction, in which the immune system mistakenly identifies body tissues or bacteria as foreign substances, thereby triggering vasculitis. In addition, certain chemicals may cause vasculitis, especially sulfuric acid and chloroform.

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Symptoms of sulfuric acid poisoning

Acute oral sulfuric acid poisoning manifests as severe burning pain in the mouth, pharynx, sternum, and abdomen; erosion and ulcers of the lips, oral cavity, and pharynx; hoarseness; dysphagia; hematemesis; perforation of the esophagus and gastric wall; and vomiting of blood. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations of sulfur fumes may lead to bronchiectasis, emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis, chest pain, chest tightness, and asthma.

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What are the consequences of drinking sulfuric acid?

Sulfuric acid is an inorganic compound with strong corrosive and oxidizing properties. Ingestion may cause esophageal burns, difficulty swallowing, gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation of the stomach or intestines, and respiratory distress. If sulfuric acid is accidentally ingested, rinse the mouth with water and seek immediate medical attention. Treatment should be administered under a doctor's guidance to prevent worsening of the condition.

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Which type of poisoning should not be treated with gastric lavage?

In general, gastric lavage is contraindicated in cases of poisoning by concentrated sulfuric acid, benzene, aniline, cyanide, and strong alkalis. Additionally, gastric lavage should also be avoided in poisoning by concentrated hydrochloric acid or concentrated nitric acid. Patients are advised to seek prompt medical attention when experiencing discomfort and to receive standardized treatment under a physician's guidance, which can facilitate recovery. Concentrated sulfuric acid releases a large amount of heat when reacting with water.

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What to do if sulfuric acid spills on the body

Sulfuric acid coming into contact with the body may cause symptoms such as burns, inflammation, and ulcers. Treatment can include rinsing with clean water, applying medication, or surgery. Sulfuric acid is corrosive, and prompt treatment is essential after exposure to prevent severe damage caused by prolonged contact.

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First aid measures after ingestion of sulfuric acid

If sulfuric acid is accidentally ingested, immediate measures such as rinsing the mouth, diluting the acid, and seeking medical attention should be taken. Regardless of the amount ingested, prompt medical care is essential so that doctors can provide further treatment. During transportation to the hospital, the individual should remain as calm as possible and avoid vigorous physical activity to minimize irritation and damage to the gastrointestinal tract caused by the acid.

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Can gastric lavage be performed for oral poisoning with sulfuric acid?

In general, whether gastric lavage can be performed in cases of oral poisoning with sulfuric acid mainly depends on the ingested dose. If the amount of ingested sulfuric acid is small, gastric lavage may be possible; however, if a large amount has been ingested, gastric lavage is contraindicated. In all cases, the patient should be promptly transported to the hospital for professional treatment, where a doctor will develop an appropriate treatment plan based on the patient's specific condition.

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Should gastric lavage be performed immediately during oral sulfate poisoning?

In general, gastric lavage should not be performed immediately in cases of oral sulfuric acid ingestion. Sulfuric acid is a highly corrosive strong acid that can cause severe damage to human tissues. After accidental ingestion, sulfuric acid rapidly passes through the esophagus into the stomach, causing serious burns and injury to the esophageal and gastric mucosa. Immediate professional medical assistance should be sought, and treatment should follow the guidance of a physician.

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