Hydrogen peroxide is a common household chemical used as a disinfectant and bleaching agent. While it has various applications, it is not safe for internal consumption. Ingesting this substance can lead to significant health complications and requires immediate medical attention.
Immediate Physiological Reactions
Ingesting hydrogen peroxide triggers immediate physiological responses. Individuals may experience irritation and burning sensations in the mouth, throat, and esophagus. Nausea, abdominal pain, and vomiting are common, with vomit potentially appearing frothy or even bloody. Gas or bloating often accompanies these symptoms due to the rapid internal production of oxygen gas, which occurs when hydrogen peroxide contacts catalase, an enzyme naturally present in human tissues. This reaction generates bubbling and pressure within the gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to gastric distention in severe cases.
Factors Influencing Severity
The severity of health effects from ingesting hydrogen peroxide depends on two factors: the concentration of the solution and the amount consumed. Household hydrogen peroxide typically contains a 3% concentration, and this diluted form generally leads to milder symptoms like upset stomach or throat irritation if a small amount is swallowed. In contrast, higher concentrations, such as “food-grade” (around 35%) or industrial strengths, pose a much greater danger. Even a small amount of these concentrated solutions can cause severe internal burns, ulceration, and perforation of the gastrointestinal tract. The volume ingested also plays a role; consuming a large quantity, even of a 3% solution, can lead to more pronounced and serious symptoms.
Understanding the Danger
Hydrogen peroxide is dangerous when ingested due to its chemical properties, acting as a strong oxidizing agent that causes corrosive damage to tissues it contacts. This corrosive action can result in chemical burns to the lining of the mouth, throat, esophagus, and stomach. Hydrogen peroxide also decomposes rapidly into water and oxygen gas upon contact with the body’s enzymes. The swift release of oxygen gas creates pressure within the digestive system, and if this gas exceeds the blood’s capacity to dissolve it, oxygen bubbles can enter the bloodstream, leading to a gas embolism. These embolisms can travel through the circulatory system and obstruct blood flow to vital organs like the heart, lungs, or brain, potentially causing life-threatening complications or even death.
Emergency Response and Medical Intervention
Immediate action is required if hydrogen peroxide has been ingested. The first step is to call emergency services, such as 911, or contact a local poison control center. It is important to provide information about the person’s age, weight, symptoms, the specific product swallowed (including its concentration if known), and the approximate time of ingestion.
Avoid inducing vomiting, as this can worsen the damage by re-exposing the esophagus and throat to the corrosive substance. Do not attempt any home remedies or give the person anything to eat or drink unless advised by medical professionals.
Upon arrival, medical professionals will assess the extent of the damage, which may involve monitoring vital signs and performing diagnostic tests like blood tests, chest X-rays, or an endoscopy to visualize internal tissues. Treatment focuses on supportive care, addressing symptoms like pain and nausea, and a nasogastric tube might be used to decompress the stomach and relieve pressure from liberated oxygen gas. For severe cases involving gas embolisms, hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be considered to help dissolve oxygen bubbles in the bloodstream and improve outcomes. Surgical intervention might be necessary for complications such as perforations or extensive tissue damage. Professional medical evaluation is necessary to manage hydrogen peroxide ingestion effectively.