Carbolic acid is a sweet-smelling clear liquid that is added to many different products. Carbolic acid poisoning occurs when someone touches or swallows this chemical.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Phenol

• Adhesive dyes
• Lubricating oils
• Perfumes
• Textiles
• Various antiseptics
• Various disinfectants
• Various germicides

Note: This list may not include all products containing carbolic acid.

• Bladder and kidneys
  • Blue- or green-colored urine
  • Decreased urine output
  • No urine output
• Eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and throat
  • Severe burns in the mouth and windpipe (esophagus)
  • Yellow eyes
• Gastrointestinal
  • Abdominal pain - severe
  • Bloody stools
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Vomiting - possibly bloody
• Heart and blood
  • Low blood pressure
  • Rapid heart rate
• Lungs
  • Deep, rapid breathing
  • Wheezing
• Nervous system
  • Coma
  • Convulsions
  • Hyperactivity
  • Lack of alertness (stupor)
  • Seizures
• Skin
  • Blue lips and fingernails
  • Burns
  • Yellow skin
• Whole body
  • Excessive thirst
  • Heavy sweating