Boric acid is a chemical compound found in various products, including pesticides, antiseptics, and flame retardants. While it has many uses, accidental ingestion can lead to adverse health effects. This article provides guidance on what to do if such an incident occurs.
Immediate Steps After Ingestion
If someone accidentally ingests boric acid, contact Poison Control immediately. The national toll-free Poison Help hotline, 1-800-222-1222, connects callers to their local poison center and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call even if symptoms have not yet developed.
When speaking with Poison Control, provide details including the person’s age and weight, the amount ingested, its concentration, and the time of ingestion. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional. Seek emergency medical attention if severe symptoms appear or if a large quantity was consumed.
Recognizing the Signs of Boric Acid Exposure
After ingesting boric acid, symptoms can vary based on the amount consumed and individual factors. Common gastrointestinal symptoms include nausea, vomiting, stomach aches, and diarrhea. The vomit and diarrhea may sometimes appear blue-green.
Skin manifestations can also occur, such as redness, a rash, or in severe cases, a “boiled lobster” like appearance followed by skin peeling. Neurological effects might include lethargy, headaches, tremors, twitching, and in more severe instances, seizures or coma. Other possible signs involve fever, muscle weakness, low blood pressure, and significantly decreased urine output. The onset of these symptoms can occur within hours or days, depending on the exposure level.
Understanding Boric Acid Toxicity
Boric acid’s harmful effects upon ingestion stem from its interaction with the body. When swallowed, it is readily absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, with 81-95% absorbed within 24-96 hours. Once absorbed, boric acid distributes throughout the body and is primarily eliminated unchanged by the kidneys. The majority, about 89-98%, is excreted in urine within four days, with an average urinary elimination half-life of approximately 21 hours.
Toxicity is influenced by several factors, including the ingested dose and concentration. While small amounts may not cause significant harm, larger quantities, particularly in children, can be dangerous. For instance, a dose of 15-20 grams has been reported to cause death in adults, and 2-3 grams in infants. Individual susceptibility also plays a role, with age, kidney function, and pre-existing conditions affecting how the body handles boric acid.
Preventing Accidental Boric Acid Exposure
Preventing accidental ingestion of boric acid involves diligent storage and careful handling. Always keep boric acid products in their original, clearly labeled containers. Store them out of reach of children and pets, ideally in a locked cabinet, and separate from food items. This helps prevent mistaken ingestion, especially as some boric acid products, like suppositories, can resemble oral medications.
When handling boric acid, wear gloves and avoid inhaling the dust, as inhalation can cause respiratory irritation. Always read product labels carefully and follow all instructions for use. Never use boric acid in ways not specified by the manufacturer, particularly in areas where food is prepared or where children and animals have access. Adherence to these safety practices can reduce the risk of accidental exposure.