Drywall is a common building material used to construct interior walls and ceilings. It is composed of a core of compressed gypsum sandwiched between layers of paper or fiberglass matting. Ingesting this material raises concerns about toxicity. While the primary ingredient, gypsum, is generally considered non-toxic in small quantities, ingesting drywall is not safe. Its physical nature and the presence of secondary contaminants pose serious health issues.
Drywall Composition and Safety Profile
The core of standard drywall is calcium sulfate dihydrate, or gypsum. This mineral comprises the bulk of the material, often making up 70 to 90 percent of the panel’s composition. Gypsum is not classified as hazardous and is even used in some food applications as a calcium supplement or coagulant. The paper facing, made from cellulose fibers, forms the outer layers.
Joint compound, often called spackle or drywall mud, is used to seal the seams between panels. This compound typically consists of finely ground minerals like calcium carbonate (limestone) or talc, mixed with a binder. Like gypsum, these ingredients have a low inherent toxicity. However, the compound is designed to harden, which can complicate its passage through the digestive system.
Immediate Physical Health Concerns
The most significant danger from eating drywall is not chemical poisoning but mechanical obstruction within the body. Any non-food item poses an immediate choking hazard, especially in young children or if a large, rigid piece is swallowed. Even if the piece clears the throat, the digestive system is not equipped to process such dense, insoluble material.
Gypsum is difficult for the body to break down, which can lead to severe gastrointestinal blockage. The material can clump together or solidify within the stomach or intestines, potentially causing impaction or complete obstruction. This condition results in intense abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, and severe constipation, often requiring immediate medical intervention. Furthermore, the rough, fibrous nature of the ingested material can irritate the lining of the esophagus and stomach. This irritation may manifest as nausea, vomiting, or general stomach discomfort.
Hidden Contaminants and Chemical Risks
While gypsum is relatively benign, chemical risks are associated with the material’s age, environment, or manufacturing origin. Water-damaged drywall is an ideal medium for mold and mildew growth. Ingesting mold-laden material can introduce mycotoxins, potentially leading to allergic reactions, respiratory distress, or severe gastrointestinal symptoms.
Of concern is the “problem drywall” imported during the early 2000s, which contained elevated levels of sulfur. When exposed to moisture, this material can release sulfurous gases, including hydrogen sulfide, which has a distinct rotten-egg odor. Ingesting particles from this type of drywall exposes a person to these chemical compounds, which have been linked to symptoms like headaches, persistent coughs, and sinus irritation.
Older drywall may also have a coating of lead-based paint, which introduces the risk of lead poisoning if ingested, even in small amounts. The fine dust created by sanding joint compound often contains crystalline silica. While inhalation is the primary exposure route for silica, ingesting dust that settles on hands or surfaces introduces an irritating substance to the digestive tract.
Necessary Steps Following Ingestion
If drywall ingestion is suspected, immediate action should prioritize safety and professional consultation. Do not attempt to induce vomiting, as this can cause further injury to the esophagus or increase the risk of aspiration. Assess the amount of material consumed and monitor for acute symptoms such as choking, difficulty breathing, or severe abdominal pain.
Immediately contact the national Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. This step is necessary regardless of the apparent severity, especially if the victim is a child or if contaminants like mold or old paint are involved. Specialists can provide specific guidance based on the victim’s age, the estimated amount consumed, and the type of drywall involved.
Medical monitoring will likely be required, particularly if a significant amount was swallowed. A healthcare provider might order X-rays to check for signs of gastrointestinal obstruction or impaction. Monitoring hydration and bowel movements is necessary for several days to ensure the material passes safely. Any development of new or worsening symptoms, such as persistent vomiting or inability to pass stool, warrants an immediate trip to the emergency room.