Accidental ingestion of gasoline presents a serious health hazard. Gasoline is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, highly toxic to the human body. Its volatile nature means even small amounts can pose significant risks.
Immediate Symptoms
Swallowing gasoline can trigger immediate and noticeable physical reactions. Individuals may experience a burning sensation in the mouth, throat, and esophagus due to the irritating nature of the chemicals. Nausea and vomiting are common initial symptoms, often accompanied by abdominal pain. A person might also cough or choke, particularly if the gasoline enters the airway.
Beyond gastrointestinal distress, other symptoms can emerge shortly after ingestion. Dizziness, headache, and general weakness are frequently reported. Some individuals may appear drowsy or disoriented, with slurred speech or staggering, as toxic compounds affect the nervous system. These signs require prompt medical attention.
Serious Health Risks
Ingesting gasoline poses serious health risks due to its toxic hydrocarbon components. While the gastrointestinal tract does not absorb gasoline easily, the primary concern is its low viscosity and high volatility, increasing the likelihood of aspiration into the lungs. Aspiration occurs when gasoline, during swallowing or vomiting, enters the respiratory tract instead of the digestive tract.
When gasoline enters the lungs, it causes severe inflammation known as chemical pneumonitis or hydrocarbon pneumonia. The hydrocarbons directly damage lung tissue, reducing surfactant production. This leads to alveolar collapse, impaired oxygen exchange, and significant breathing difficulties, potentially resulting in respiratory distress or failure.
Beyond pulmonary effects, systemic absorption of hydrocarbons can impact several other organ systems. The central nervous system (CNS) is particularly susceptible, with effects ranging from drowsiness, confusion, and dizziness to more severe outcomes like convulsions, coma, and even loss of consciousness. These neurological effects can occur rapidly and may be due to the hydrocarbons interfering with oxygen transport or directly affecting brain function.
Gasoline ingestion can also lead to chemical burns in the esophagus and stomach, causing tissue damage and internal bleeding. While gastrointestinal absorption is minimal, larger quantities can cause systemic toxicity. The liver and kidneys, organs responsible for filtering toxins, can be affected, potentially leading to inflammation or dysfunction. Severe exposure can result in cardiac issues, including irregular heartbeats or heart failure.
First Aid Steps
Immediate action is important if someone has swallowed gasoline. The first and most important step is to contact emergency services, such as 911 in the United States, or the national toll-free Poison Help hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Providing details about the person’s age, the estimated amount swallowed, and the time of ingestion can assist medical professionals in guiding appropriate care.
It is important to avoid inducing vomiting. Forcing a person to vomit can cause the gasoline to enter the lungs, leading to severe and potentially life-threatening aspiration pneumonia. If the person does vomit spontaneously, help them lean forward or turn their head to the side to prevent choking and aspiration.
While waiting for medical help, if the person is conscious and able to swallow, they may be given small sips of water. Do not give water or milk to an unconscious person. Remove any clothing that has come into contact with gasoline and wash affected skin thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes. Move the individual to an area with fresh air, especially if gasoline fumes are present.
Professional Medical Care
Upon arrival at a medical facility, healthcare providers will conduct a thorough assessment, including monitoring vital signs such as temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Diagnostic procedures are important to determine the extent of internal damage. A chest X-ray or CT scan will be performed to evaluate lung injury and assess for chemical pneumonitis.
Various blood tests will be conducted to assess oxygenation, check for signs of infection or inflammation, and evaluate organ function, particularly the liver and kidneys. In some cases, an endoscopy or bronchoscopy may be performed to visualize and assess for chemical burns in the esophagus, stomach, or airways.
Treatment for gasoline ingestion is primarily supportive, focusing on managing symptoms and complications. This may include providing oxygen therapy or, in severe cases of respiratory distress, mechanical ventilation. Intravenous fluids will be administered to maintain hydration and support organ function. If aspiration pneumonia develops, antibiotics may be prescribed to address potential bacterial infections. Medical staff will continue to monitor the patient closely for any developing complications.