Drywall, also known as gypsum board or plasterboard, is a common construction material used for interior walls and ceilings. It is not designed for human consumption, and while its core components are generally considered non-toxic in small amounts, ingestion presents specific health hazards. Reports of ingestion are typically accidental, often involving young children, or linked to a psychological condition called pica. Drywall is a non-food item the human body cannot process, leading to immediate physical trauma and later systemic complications.
Drywall Composition and Safety Profile
The bulk of modern drywall is composed of gypsum, a soft mineral made of calcium sulfate dihydrate. This mineral core is sandwiched between layers of thick paper that provide structural integrity. Although gypsum is low in acute toxicity, it is biologically inert, meaning the body cannot digest or absorb it as a nutrient.
Drywall also contains minor additives mixed into the core or applied to the paper, such as starches, foaming agents, and mold inhibitors. Trace amounts of chemicals like formaldehyde or heavy metals may be present, introducing a low-level chemical risk. The toxicity profile can increase significantly if the material is old or damaged, despite current regulations minimizing chemical contaminants.
Older drywall, particularly that installed before the 1980s, may contain highly toxic contaminants like asbestos or lead paint on the surface. A more common risk is contamination by mold, which grows rapidly in water-damaged drywall. Ingesting mold spores and mycotoxins from contaminated material poses a greater and more immediate health threat than the gypsum itself.
Immediate Physical Dangers
The most immediate danger from eating drywall is the mechanical hazard posed by its physical form. Drywall fragments are hard, rigid, and often possess sharp, jagged edges when broken. Swallowing a piece carries a significant risk of choking and obstructing the airway, which requires immediate emergency intervention.
As the piece travels down the throat, its abrasive texture and sharp points can cause internal trauma. Lacerations or abrasions may occur in the mouth, pharynx, or the lining of the esophagus. This physical damage can lead to pain, bleeding, and potential infection at the site of injury.
Once swallowed, the rigid, non-compressible nature of the fragment poses a serious risk of gastrointestinal obstruction. Unlike food, the material does not break down in the stomach and cannot be easily passed through the small intestine. An obstruction can lead to severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and a medical emergency requiring surgical removal.
Systemic and Digestive Effects
Once a drywall fragment bypasses the immediate physical dangers, it encounters the strong acids and digestive enzymes of the stomach, which are ineffective against the mineral core. The calcium sulfate dihydrate remains largely intact, serving as a foreign body within the digestive tract. This inert mass physically irritates the stomach and intestinal lining, often triggering gastrointestinal upset.
Symptoms of internal irritation include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramping as the body attempts to expel the indigestible material. The bulk material can slow down the movement of contents through the intestines, potentially causing severe constipation or, paradoxically, diarrhea. If a substantial amount is consumed, the volume of the non-digestible gypsum significantly increases the risk of a complete intestinal blockage.
Chronic ingestion of drywall can displace nutrient-rich foods, leading to nutritional deficiencies. The inability to process calcium sulfate can also disrupt fluid and electrolyte balance in the digestive system. Ingesting mold-contaminated drywall introduces biological hazards, as fungal spores and their toxic byproducts can cause systemic illness beyond simple digestive distress.
Steps to Take After Ingestion
The immediate action following drywall ingestion is to assess the individual’s condition, particularly looking for signs of airway obstruction. If the person is choking, unable to breathe, or experiencing severe coughing, emergency medical services should be contacted immediately. If the person is breathing normally and conscious, do not attempt to induce vomiting, as this can cause further injury to the esophagus.
The mouth should be gently wiped clean to remove any remaining fragments or dust. If the person is conscious, they can be given a small amount of water to wash down any residual particles in the throat. It is important to determine how much material was consumed and whether the drywall was old or water-damaged.
For guidance on the potential toxicity or the quantity ingested, the next step is to call Poison Control. These professionals provide expert advice based on the specific type of drywall and the person’s health status. If severe symptoms develop, such as persistent vomiting, intense abdominal pain, or an inability to pass stool, immediate evaluation at an emergency department is necessary to rule out an internal obstruction.