Accidental ingestion of playdough is a common concern. Playdough is a malleable modeling compound not intended for consumption. Small, incidental ingestion of commercial varieties is generally considered non-life-threatening for most healthy individuals, assuming a limited quantity was consumed. However, due to its high salt content and other components, ingestion should never be encouraged, and a larger intake warrants immediate attention.
Common Ingredients and Toxicity Assessment
Commercial playdough is primarily composed of simple, minimally toxic ingredients, including water, flour, and a significant amount of salt. Other components often include oil for texture, preservatives like borax or sodium benzoate, and various pigments and fragrances. The “non-toxic” classification means these ingredients are unlikely to cause serious harm if only a small quantity is swallowed. Since the flour content is typically wheat-based, playdough can trigger an allergic reaction in individuals with wheat or gluten sensitivity.
It is important to differentiate between commercial and homemade playdough, as homemade versions have a wider range of ingredient concentrations. Many homemade recipes utilize a very high proportion of table salt (sodium chloride) for texture and preservation. Some formulations may also contain boric acid, which can be toxic if consumed in large amounts. The toxicity level is highly dependent on the specific recipe and the total amount consumed.
Gastrointestinal Effects and Salt Poisoning Risk
Ingesting a non-food substance like playdough can lead to mild, temporary gastrointestinal upset due to its bulk and consistency. Minor symptoms may include a mild stomach ache, temporary constipation, or loose stools, which the body typically passes without intervention. A larger intake may trigger vomiting as the stomach attempts to expel the mass. Food coloring can also cause temporary, harmless discoloration of the stool.
The most significant danger associated with playdough ingestion, particularly with homemade varieties, is the risk of salt poisoning, known medically as hypernatremia. Playdough, especially salt dough, contains a concentration of sodium chloride that can overwhelm the body’s ability to maintain a healthy electrolyte balance. Hypernatremia occurs when the serum sodium concentration rises too high, drawing water out of the body’s cells, including brain cells. This process can lead to cellular shrinkage and severe neurological symptoms. Severe symptoms of salt poisoning include extreme thirst, lethargy, irritability, incoordination, seizures, coma, or cerebral hemorrhage.
When to Seek Medical Attention
For a small, incidental taste of commercial playdough with no immediate symptoms, monitoring at home is generally sufficient. It is advisable to rinse the mouth and offer water to drink. However, any ingestion that is more than a small bite, especially of homemade playdough or salt dough, warrants immediate professional consultation.
If a large quantity has been consumed, or if the individual begins to show any signs of salt toxicity, emergency medical intervention is necessary. Symptoms such as persistent vomiting, extreme drowsiness, unusual irritability, or any sign of seizure activity require a call to emergency services. For any concern about unknown ingredients or a significant intake of salt, immediately contact a regional Poison Control Center. These centers provide expert, situation-specific guidance based on the estimated quantity ingested and the individual’s symptoms.