Kerosene is an oil used as a fuel for lamps, as well as heating and cooking. This article discusses the harmful effects from swallowing or breathing in kerosene.

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.

• Hydrocarbons, substances that contain only hydrogen and carbon.

• Kerosene (a fuel used for heating and cooking)
• Some lamp fuels

Note: This list may not be all-inclusive.

• Airways and lungs
  • Breathing difficulty (from inhalation)
  • Throat swelling (may also cause breathing difficulty)
• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  • Pain
  • Vision loss
• Gastrointestinal
  • Abdominal pain
  • Bloody stools
  • Burns of the esophagus (food pipe)
  • Vomiting, possibly with blood
• Heart and blood
  • Collapse
  • Low blood pressure -- develops rapidly
• Nervous system
  • Convulsions
  • Depression
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Euphoria ("drunk" feeling)
  • Headache
  • Loss of alertness (unconciousness)
  • Seizures
  • Staggering
  • Weakness
• Skin
  • Burns
  • Irritation