Metal polish poisoning
Definition
Metal polishes are used to clean all metals, brass, copper, or silver. This article discusses the harmful effects from swallowing metal polish. 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.
Poisonous Ingredient
The poisonous ingredients found in metal polishes are ammonia and hydrocarbons, which are substances that contain only hydrogen and carbon.
Where Found
Metal polishes are sold under various brand names. Examples include Brasso and Tarn-X.
Symptoms & Signs
- Airways and lungs
- Breathing difficulty (from inhalation)
- Throat swelling (may also cause breathing difficulty)
- Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
- Severe pain in the throat
- Severe pain or burning in the nose, eyes, ears, lips, or tongue
- Vision loss
- Gastrointestinal
- Abdominal pain -- severe
- Blood stools
- Burns of the esophagus (food pipe)
- Vomiting, possibly with blood
- Heart and blood
- Collapse
- Low blood pressure -- develops rapidly
- Nervous system
- Coma
- Convulsions
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Staggering
- Stupor
- Weakness
- Skin
- Burns
- Irritation
- Necrosis (holes) in the skin or underlying tissues
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