Watch for chlorine poisoning when you go swimming

When children swallow or inhale chlorine, poisoning will occur. Parents should handle like?

What should you do when your child has chlorine poisoning? Symptoms of poisoning like? The following article will give you the answer to better understand it!

What is chlorine?

Chlorine is a chemical that can inhibit the growth of bacteria in water. It is used for the disinfection of wastewater and industrial waste. It is also an ingredient in some cleaning products.

Risk of chlorine poisoning

Chlorine poisoning can occur when you swallow or inhale chlorine. Chlorine reacts with water - including the water in the digestive tract - to produce hydrochloric acid and hydrochlorous acid. Both substances are extremely toxic to humans.

You are probably most familiar with the chlorine used in swimming pools. However, most poisoning incidents are caused by ingestion of chlorine in household cleaning products, not swimming pool water. Some common household products and substances that contain chlorine include:

Chlorine tablets are used in swimming pools;

Swimming pool water;

Mild household detergent;

Bleach.

Symptoms of chlorine poisoning

Chlorine poisoning can cause symptoms all over the body. Respiratory symptoms include difficulty breathing and fluid in the lungs. Gastrointestinal symptoms include:

Burning in the mouth;

Swelling of the throat;

Sore throat;

Stomachache;

Vomiting;

Blood in the stool.

Chlorine exposure can damage the circulatory system. Symptoms of this problem include:

Changes in blood pH balance;

Low blood pressure;

Serious eye injuries including a burning sensation. In the worst case can lead to temporary vision loss;

Skin damage, potentially leading to tissue damage, burns and burning.

How to treat chlorine poisoning?

Seek medical attention immediately if you or your child is exposed to chlorine. Do not try to induce vomiting unless directed to do so by your healthcare professional. If chlorinated chemicals get into your skin or eyes, rinse the affected area with water for at least 15 minutes.

If a child accidentally swallows chlorine, drink milk or water immediately to avoid vomiting or convulsions. If chlorine is inhaled, go to fresh air or an upstairs place because chlorine is heavier than air.

You need to provide your doctor the following information to treat chlorine poisoning more effectively:

Age;

Weight;

Clinical status;

Product exposure;

Amount of consumption;

Contact time.

Once in the emergency room, the doctor will measure and monitor your child's vital signs including pulse, temperature, blood pressure and breathing rate. Doctors can also help alleviate symptoms and remove chlorine with one of the following measures:

Activated carbon;

Medicine;

Intravenous fluids;

Oxygen.

Take appropriate measures to prevent chlorine poisoning, such as storing chlorine-containing products in a locked cabinet or closet and keeping them out of the reach of children.