Accidental soap poisoning
Accidental poisoning by soap products can occur as a result of contact with household cleaning products that contain strong chemicals, including soap you use to wash your body.
Most shampoos as well as hand and body soaps are minimally poisonous in small amounts, but they can irritate the eyes and cause symptoms of nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea if ingested.
what happens if you swallow soap
Swallowing soap, even in small amounts, can lead to discomfort and potential health risks. Although most household soaps are not highly toxic, they can irritate the digestive tract and cause a range of symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Swallowing Soap:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Sore throat
What to do if you think someone has soap poisoning
If you or your child has swallowed soap, call the NCPC immediately at 800-222-1222. This is a free and confidential line to poison specialists who can give you immediate instructions. The line is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The specialist will walk you through what to do next depending on you or your child's symptoms. If the symptoms are considered severe, they may tell you to call 911 or go to an emergency room right away.
Never try to make your child or anyone who you think may have been poisoned vomit unless a medical professional asks you to do so.
Also, it's helpful to provide the poison control specialist or medical professional with the type and quantity of soap that caused the poisoning. Bring the container of soap with you to the emergency room if you can.
