What are the health hazards of methanol to the human body?

Nov 11, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Shuwen

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, methanol can cause harm to the human body including damage to the central nervous system, eyes, respiratory system, cardiovascular system, and digestive system. When using or storing methanol, appropriate safety measures must be taken, such as wearing personal protective equipment, ensuring adequate ventilation, and properly labeling and storing the substance, to prevent methanol poisoning.

1. Central nervous system damage: Formic acid, a metabolite of methanol in the body, can accumulate and lead to metabolic acidosis, thereby affecting nervous system function. Specific manifestations include headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, altered consciousness, excitement, insomnia, multiple neuritis, and changes in mental status. Severe cases may result in coma and death.

2. Eye damage: The metabolite formic acid is toxic to the optic nerve and may cause optic nerve injury. Specific manifestations include eye pain in both eyes, blurred or double vision, sudden vision loss, and even blindness. Fundoscopic examination may reveal retinal congestion, hemorrhage, and optic disc edema. Methanol may also cause visual field defects, optic nerve atrophy, and symptoms such as autonomic nervous system dysfunction.

3. Respiratory system damage: Methanol poisoning may suppress the respiratory center, causing difficulty breathing and potentially leading to respiratory failure in severe cases. Additionally, methanol may irritate the respiratory tract and cause respiratory inflammation.

4. Cardiovascular system damage: Methanol may exert direct toxicity on the heart, causing arrhythmias such as ventricular premature beats, and severe cases may lead to cardiac arrest. Methanol poisoning may also be complicated by acute pancreatitis, elevated transaminase levels, and impaired kidney function.

5. Digestive system damage: Ingestion of methanol may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, diarrhea, and constipation.

Appropriate safety measures should be taken when using or storing methanol, such as wearing personal protective equipment, ensuring adequate ventilation, and properly labeling and storing methanol to prevent poisoning.

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Is it harmful if my hands come into contact with methanol during an experiment?

In general, if hands come into contact with methanol during experiments, it may cause a series of health problems. Methanol is a toxic substance that can irritate the skin and mucous membranes, potentially leading to skin irritation, inflammation, and redness or swelling. If the exposure time is prolonged or the concentration of methanol is high, it may result in chemical burns.

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What causes homemade wine poisoning?

In general, the causes of poisoning from homemade wine include excessive methanol, contamination by miscellaneous bacteria, improper handling, alcohol intoxication, and use of non-edible grape varieties. Patients are advised to receive symptomatic treatment as directed by a physician. If any abnormal conditions or symptoms of poisoning occur after consuming homemade wine, individuals should seek medical attention promptly and inform the doctor, who will then take appropriate measures based on the specific situation.

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Is the vapor of methanol toxic?

Methanol vapor is generally toxic. Methanol is typically a colorless, transparent, flammable, volatile, and toxic liquid that may produce toxic effects when entering the human body through the respiratory tract, digestive tract, or skin and mucous membranes. When methanol poisoning is suspected, prompt medical attention should be sought and treatment pursued under a doctor's guidance; self-treatment should be avoided to prevent accidents.

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Can diluted industrial alcohol be used for disinfection?

In general, industrial alcohol should not be used for disinfection even after dilution. Industrial alcohol typically has a purity of 95% or 99%, and besides ethanol, it contains significant amounts of impurities such as methanol and formaldehyde. Even when diluted, it remains unsuitable for disinfection purposes. For wound disinfection, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and use pharmaceutical-grade alcohol under the guidance of a healthcare professional.