Mineral spirits poisoning
Definition
This article discusses the harmful effects from swallowing or breathing in mineral spirits. 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 in mineral spirits are hydrocarbons, which are substances that contain only hydrogen and carbon. Examples are benzene and methane.
Where Found
- Mineral spirits (Stoddard solvent)
- Some paints
- Some floor and furniture waxes and polishes
- Some dry cleaning fluids
- White spirits
Note: This list may not be all-inclusive.
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 bloody
- Heart and blood
- Collapse
- Low blood pressure -- develops rapidly
- Rapid heartbeat
- Nervous system
- Burning sensations
- Convulsions
- Dizziness
- Loss of alertness
- Memory problems
- Nervousness
- Numbness in arms and legs
- Skin
- Burns
- Irritation
- Necrosis (holes) in the skin or underlying tissues
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