What are the consequences of drinking sulfuric acid?
Nov 25, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
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.
Sulfuric acid is an inorganic compound with strong corrosive and oxidizing properties. Ingestion may cause esophageal burns, difficulty swallowing, gastrointestinal bleeding, gastrointestinal perforation, and respiratory distress.
1. Esophageal Burns
Sulfuric acid is a strong acid with intense corrosiveness. Upon contact with the inner lining of the esophagus, it may trigger chemical corrosion, damaging esophageal tissues.
2. Difficulty Swallowing
The corrosive effect of sulfuric acid can induce inflammatory reactions within the esophagus, leading to tissue swelling and congestion. This narrows the passage for food through the esophagus, making swallowing more difficult.
3. Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Sulfuric acid typically corrodes and damages various layers of the stomach wall. As the degree of corrosion worsens and extends into the submucosal and mucosal layers, localized pain and increased bleeding may occur.
4. Gastrointestinal Perforation
Due to corrosive injury and ulcer formation, the strength of gastrointestinal tissues progressively decreases, making them unable to withstand normal digestive processes or peristaltic movements. This can lead to tissue rupture and perforation.
5. Respiratory Distress
As a strong acid, ingested sulfuric acid can cause corrosive damage to the mouth, throat, and esophagus, resulting in airway narrowing or edema, which may subsequently lead to breathing difficulties.
If sulfuric acid is accidentally ingested, rinse the mouth with water and seek immediate medical attention. Under a doctor's guidance, appropriate treatment methods should be selected to prevent worsening of the condition.
