Household bleach is a common cleaning and disinfecting agent, but it is a toxic chemical with no psychoactive properties. The answer to whether one can get “high” from bleach is a definite no; attempting to inhale or ingest it only results in severe poisoning and immediate bodily harm. Exposure to bleach, even in small amounts, can lead to serious injury or death.
The Chemistry of Household Bleach
The primary active ingredient in household bleach is sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), an alkaline compound typically present in an aqueous solution at concentrations ranging from 3% to 9% for domestic use. Sodium hypochlorite’s disinfecting power comes from its highly corrosive and oxidizing nature, which breaks down the cell structures of microorganisms and organic matter. The solution also contains sodium hydroxide, which contributes to its high alkalinity, often giving it a pH above 11. This high pH makes concentrated bleach corrosive, meaning it can chemically burn and destroy tissues upon contact. While household bleach is diluted, it still readily releases irritating vapors that can cause respiratory distress.
Acute Toxicity from Inhalation and Ingestion
Exposure to bleach, either through inhalation of its vapors or ingestion of the liquid, causes symptoms of poisoning, not intoxication. If the liquid is swallowed, it immediately acts as a corrosive agent, causing severe burning pain in the mouth and throat. The corrosive damage can extend down the gastrointestinal tract, leading to burns of the esophagus and stomach, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Inhaling the fumes can cause irritation to the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, resulting in coughing, chest tightness, and a sore throat. Higher concentrations of inhaled hypochlorite vapors can lead to serious pulmonary complications, such as chemical pneumonitis or pulmonary edema, which is a dangerous buildup of fluid in the lungs.
The Extreme Danger of Mixing Bleach
A common and highly dangerous form of exposure occurs when bleach is mixed with other household cleaners, creating lethal gases. Mixing sodium hypochlorite with an acid, such as vinegar, toilet bowl cleaner, or rust remover, generates highly toxic chlorine gas. Even low levels of chlorine gas immediately irritate the nose, throat, and eyes, causing coughing and breathing difficulties. Combining bleach with ammonia, which is found in many glass and all-purpose cleaners, produces chloramine gases. Exposure to chloramine can cause severe respiratory symptoms, including nausea, shortness of breath, and chest pain, and can lead to chemical pneumonia. These chemical reactions are extremely rapid and can result in life-threatening damage to the lungs and airways, especially in confined spaces.
Immediate Actions After Exposure
If exposure to bleach occurs, immediate action is necessary to minimize harm and seek professional assistance. The national Poison Help line (1-800-222-1222) should be called right away for expert, confidential advice. If the exposed person collapses, has a seizure, or experiences severe difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately.
For inhalation exposure, the person should be moved to fresh air immediately. If the liquid contacts the skin or eyes, contaminated clothing must be removed, and the affected area should be rinsed with continuous running water for at least 15 minutes. If bleach was ingested, do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed to do so by Poison Control, as this can cause additional corrosive injury to the esophagus.