Camphor, a waxy, colorless solid with a strong aroma, is an organic compound commonly found in various household and medicinal products. It is frequently used in topical creams, ointments, and balms to relieve itching, pain, and chest congestion, such as in vapor rubs and some pain-relieving liniments. Camphor is also present in aromatherapy products, mothballs, and certain traditional remedies. Despite its widespread use, camphor can be dangerous if ingested or improperly applied. This article explains the risks, symptoms, emergency responses, and prevention strategies for camphor poisoning.
Understanding Camphor Poisoning
Camphor poisoning occurs when the substance enters the body through ingestion, inhalation, or absorption through the skin. Once absorbed, it primarily affects the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract. Common sources include concentrated camphor oil, balms, rubs, mothballs, and some traditional or homemade remedies.
Even small amounts of camphor can be toxic, particularly for children. For instance, ingesting as little as 5 mL of a 20% camphorated oil solution, which contains approximately 1000 mg of camphor, has been associated with severe toxicity and even death in young children. This highlights the serious danger posed by readily available camphor products if not handled with extreme care.
Identifying Symptoms
Recognizing camphor poisoning signs is crucial, as symptoms can appear rapidly, often within minutes to an hour of exposure. Initial symptoms may involve the gastrointestinal system, presenting as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and a burning sensation in the mouth or throat. These effects can occur within 5 to 20 minutes following ingestion.
More serious effects frequently involve the nervous system. Individuals may experience irritability, restlessness, confusion, headaches, dizziness, agitation, and hallucinations. Muscle twitching, myoclonus (sudden muscle jerks), hyperreflexia (overactive reflexes), and ataxia (loss of coordination) are also common.
One of the most concerning neurological complications is seizures, which can manifest as generalized tonic-clonic activity and may occur within 30 to 90 minutes of exposure. In severe cases, central nervous system depression, leading to coma and respiratory depression or apnea, can develop. Symptoms can vary based on the amount of camphor absorbed and the individual’s age and weight, with young children being especially vulnerable to severe effects.
Emergency Response and Treatment
If camphor poisoning is suspected, immediate action is necessary. First, call emergency services, such as your local Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222 in the U.S.) or 911 for immediate medical assistance. Be prepared to provide specific information: the substance ingested, estimated amount, time of exposure, and any symptoms the affected individual is experiencing.
It is important not to induce vomiting unless specifically advised to do so by a medical professional or Poison Control Center. Inducing vomiting can increase the risk of aspiration, especially if seizures are a possibility. For skin exposure, washing the affected area thoroughly with soap and lukewarm water is recommended.
Medical treatment for camphor poisoning is primarily supportive, focusing on managing symptoms. This often includes controlling seizures with medications like benzodiazepines, monitoring vital signs, and providing intravenous fluids. Activated charcoal is generally not effective for camphor poisoning due to its rapid absorption from the stomach and is typically only considered if other substances were also ingested.
Preventing Camphor Exposure
Preventing camphor poisoning involves careful management and awareness of products containing this substance. All camphor-containing products should be stored securely, out of the reach and sight of children, preferably in their original, clearly labeled containers. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of accidental ingestion.
Avoid using camphor products on infants and young children, especially on their faces, nostrils, or broken skin. Young children’s skin is more permeable, allowing for easier absorption of toxic levels of camphor. Always read product labels carefully to identify camphor as an ingredient, particularly in topical rubs, balms, and traditional remedies that may not explicitly state the concentration.
When disposing of camphor products, ensure they are secured to prevent access by children or pets. Being mindful of these practices helps to protect vulnerable individuals from the potentially severe consequences of camphor poisoning.