Sulfuric acid is a very strong chemical that is corrosive. Corrosive means it can cause severe burns and tissue damage when it comes into contact with the skin or mucous membranes. This article discusses poisoning from sulfuric acid.

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.

Sulfuric acid

• Car battery acid
• Certain detergents
• Chemical munitions
• Some fertilizers
• Some toilet bowl cleaners

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Initial symptoms include severe pain on contact.

Symptoms from swallowing may also include:

• Breathing difficulty due to throat swelling
• Burns in the mouth and throat
• Drooling
• Fever
• Rapid development of low blood pressure
• Severe pain in the mouth and throat
• Speech problems
• Vomiting, with blood
• Vision loss

Symptoms from breathing in the poison may include:

• Bluish skin, lips, and fingernails
• Breathing difficulty
• Body weakness
• Chest pain (tightness)
• Choking
• Coughing
• Coughing up blood
• Dizziness
• Low blood pressure
• Rapid pulse
• Shortness of breath