Acid poisoning: sulfuric, citric, hydrochloric, nitric, orthophosphoric acids

Today, acid poisoning is increasingly common in medical practice. This is due to the fact that acids are increasingly used in various areas of human activity. The most dangerous toxic acids are widely used in industry and research, in laboratories. Less toxic, but still unsafe acids are used in agriculture and everyday life. Even cooking, canning, food products, and drinks today cannot do without adding acids.

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Statistics

Recently, there has been a tendency towards an increase in the number of household poisonings. There are approximately 200 poisonings per 100,000 people per year, which is approximately 5% of patients. Of particular interest is the fact that recently in Russia there have been more cases of criminal poisonings. Every fifth patient who has been poisoned is admitted to the department in a critical condition. In the structure of poisonings, 80% are accidental poisonings, 18% are suicidal poisonings, and only 2% of poisonings are poisonings against the background of professional activity. On average, there are 120 poisonings per 100,000 residents per year that ended in recovery and 13 fatal poisonings.

Risk factors

The risk of poisoning is primarily faced by people whose professional activities involve contact with acids. They can easily be poisoned by vapors, excess salts in the air. If the exhaust hood is not working or the room is not sufficiently ventilated, the risk of poisoning increases significantly.

People who suffer from alcoholism, toxicomania and drug addiction, mentally unstable individuals and people prone to suicide are also at risk. They most often have accidents, or they use acids for deliberate poisoning. The greatest number of poisonings is observed in people who lead an immoral lifestyle, dysfunctional families. Also at risk are people who turn to various psychics and healers, use sedatives, or those infusions and decoctions of unknown composition that the healer gives. Even illegal termination of pregnancy by various amateurs often ends in poisoning with some acid. Children are also at risk, since due to their curiosity they often ingest acids if they are hidden in an insufficiently secure place.

Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis is based on tissue damage by a chemical agent that has toxic properties. Such an impact is an injury that disrupts the integrity, as well as the organic and functional state of the body. Disturbances begin at the molecular and cellular level. In this case, the main biochemical processes in the body are disrupted, cellular structures and components are damaged. Cells stop performing their functions and die. This entails an inflammatory process in the tissues, and then their acute necrosis.

Tissue damage already entails serious consequences, as the activity of internal organs is disrupted, all vital signs change. The body goes into a state of stress, organ and multiple organ failure develops. Due to the most powerful edema, hyperemia and necrosis, there is a failure of vital organs, intoxication and dehydration, metabolic disorders, electrolyte balance, as a result of which the body dies.

Acid Poisoning in Children

Children are driven by cognitive activity, so they will certainly taste and smell everything new that they manage to find. This is most often the cause of poisoning. In children, poisoning develops much faster than in adults, and the risk of death is higher. To prevent poisoning in children, it is necessary to hide acids and other toxic substances as far away from children as possible. It is also important not to leave children unattended for a long time.

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Acute acid poisoning

Acute poisoning occurs when acid or another poison gets into the stomach and then into the blood. Acute poisoning develops over different periods of time. It all depends on what kind of acid got inside. Some acids can have a toxic effect after just a few seconds. Others cause latent processes that only become apparent after 5-6 days.

Poisoning also manifests itself in different ways. It all depends on the type of acid. Most often, common symptoms for all acids are damage to the digestive tract, burns, profuse salivation and lacrimation. The person begins to choke and loses consciousness. Severe edema develops. If the poison is a nerve agent, it can paralyze smooth muscles, which will result in failure of breathing and other vital functions. In this case, the person dies if first aid is not provided. In any poisoning, assistance comes down to neutralizing the poison, pain relief, maintaining vital signs and further hospitalization for the necessary treatment.

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Types

Depending on the cause and place where the poisoning occurred, all acid poisonings are divided into three types: accidental, industrial and domestic. Several more types of poisonings that have arisen relatively recently are separately identified: poisoning that is the result of a medical error, criminal, deliberate and suicidal. According to another classification, poisonings are divided into 4 types: single, group, multiple and mass.

Sulfuric acid poisoning

Sulfuric acid is a dangerous chemical component with toxic properties. In case of sulfuric acid poisoning, there are 2 possible scenarios. In the first case, a person is poisoned by a liquid reagent, in the second case by vapors. Poisoning by vapors is no less dangerous than the ingestion of liquid into the body. Sulfuric acid is highly toxic. The lethal dose is already 0.18 mg/l.

Poisoning most often occurs in production, where the worker deals with this acid. When working, it is important not only to observe safety measures, but also to be able to provide first aid, since often a life can only be saved in the first minutes after the substance enters the body. Sulfuric acid can only poison you through direct contact with it. The question of which form of poisoning is more severe: vapor or liquid, still remains unanswered.

Sulfuric acid poisoning has very specific symptoms that cannot be confused with other symptoms. Poisoning with vapors and liquids manifests itself in different ways. Severe burns of the eyes and mucous membranes, damage to the skin of the face indicate vapor poisoning. Blood may ooze from the inflamed nasal passages, nosebleeds often occur. Erosions and ulcers appear on the mucous membranes, which gradually also begin to bleed. Then the throat begins to hurt, a severe throat spasm appears. Edema develops quite quickly, which blocks the airways and causes suffocation. Gradually, the poison penetrates the skin and airways into the blood, where it affects blood cells, in particular, red blood cells. Hemoglobin is released, severe hypoxia and acidosis develop. If assistance is not provided at this stage, the person will die.

If poisoning with liquid acid occurs, the consequences will be more severe. The poison immediately enters the blood, and a chemical burn develops. The following symptoms appear: dyspeptic disorders, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea. Vomiting is profuse, with sharp pain and spasm. A large amount of blood and brown inclusions may be observed in the vomit. If the acid is highly concentrated, profuse salivation develops. In this case, the person is thrown into a fever, trembling develops. Liver damage and profuse bleeding may develop.

In parallel, pulmonary edema, laryngeal edema develops, and the respiratory tract is affected. This leads to suffocation and loss of consciousness. If the blood function is severely impaired, internal organs are affected and vital signs change.

The skin turns blue, swelling and spasm also appear. A person may lose consciousness, fall into a coma. Convulsions develop. This leads to disruption of the heart. Arrhythmia and pain in the chest area appear. All this is aggravated by pain shock.

If help is not provided in a timely manner, the person will die. First of all, it is necessary to neutralize the action of the acid. To do this, you need to know where it got into. If it gets inside, give it any fatty or enveloping agent to drink, which will protect the walls of the stomach from further corrosion. This can be a glass of milk or vegetable oil, egg white, a piece of butter.

If the outer coverings or eyes are affected, you need to rinse with warm water as quickly as possible. Then you need to put 2% novocaine solution in your eyes, which relieves swelling and pain. Then the damaged eyelid is treated with something greasy: Vaseline, oil, greasy cream. The outer surface is treated, and the ointment is also placed in the eyelid itself.

If the acid gets on the skin surface, you need to wash the damaged area with plenty of running water. You need to wash for a long time, at least 10 minutes. It is recommended to use soap immediately, since it contains alkali, which neutralizes the effect of the acid. After that, a bandage of bandage and gauze is applied to the affected area. The bandage should initially be treated with a soda solution. If necessary, a solution of novocaine is used instead of soda, which reduces pain.

After first aid is provided, the patient is urgently taken to the hospital, hospitalized and undergoes further treatment. Treatment includes pain relief: injections of novocaine. In order to prevent infection and sepsis, a course of antibiotic therapy is administered. Hormonal agents are prescribed to relieve inflammation and normalize the body's condition. If internal organs are affected, appropriate symptomatic therapy is administered. In severe cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary. In emergency cases, surgical operations are performed.

Prevention comes down to observing safety precautions and being careful when working with acids. It is necessary to take precautions, wear protective clothing, and use an exhaust hood. It is recommended not to store such a toxic agent at home, which will help avoid accidents.

Citric acid poisoning

Citric acid is considered a food additive, however, cases of poisoning with it are becoming more frequent. Citric acid is usually found in every home, stored in a visible place. Anyone can take it, or confuse it with another product. Often children take citric acid without adult supervision, consume it internally in large quantities, which leads to poisoning. It is also found in nature in many fruits and vegetables, in cosmetics.

Citric acid poisoning can be suspected if a person experiences severe pain in the esophagus and stomach. All this is accompanied by headaches and dizziness, vomiting. Intestinal function is disrupted, the skin becomes pale, and sometimes, on the contrary, turns blue.

Gradually, the condition worsens: the heartbeat increases, blood pressure drops sharply. Convulsions may develop. If first aid is not provided at this stage, the person may lose consciousness and fall into a coma. The peculiarity of this type of poisoning is that the symptoms develop slowly, gradually. Therefore, you can notice the violations in a timely manner and seek help. The patient rarely reaches a comatose state. With a chemical burn of the skin, there is a sharp reddening of the skin, irritation. All this is accompanied by sharp pain.

First aid consists of applying ice to the patient's stomach. This causes the blood vessels to narrow and the absorption of the poison to slow down. You cannot rinse the person or induce vomiting, since citric acid easily dissolves in water, can cause repeated burning of the esophagus, and will begin to be absorbed into the blood faster, which will significantly worsen the condition. If it gets on the skin, rinse thoroughly with water and wash with soap. The patient must be provided with complete rest and an ambulance must be called as soon as possible.

The hospital provides basic treatment. The patient is prescribed symptomatic therapy, adsorbents, painkillers. If necessary, gastric lavage is performed. If there is bleeding, drugs are prescribed to stop the bleeding. If necessary, surgical intervention and blood transfusion are performed.

The most dangerous complications are bleeding, especially internal bleeding, impaired kidney and liver function, pain shock, respiratory arrest and cardiac arrest.

Hydrochloric acid poisoning

Hydrochloric acid is a strong toxic substance. The picture of poisoning is similar to the picture of poisoning with other acids, so it is often difficult to diagnose and accurately determine the type of acid that caused the poisoning. It is used in laboratory conditions, as well as in production. Therefore, the main poisonings are industrial. Most often, poisoning occurs with vapors, since even with a working hood, vapors inevitably evaporate and settle.

A choking cough, headache, stinging eyes, nasal congestion and ear congestion indicate poisoning. Irritation of the mucous membranes is observed. If no measures are taken in this case, the poisoning becomes chronic. This leads to tooth decay, stomach and intestinal disorders. When it gets on the skin, a chemical burn occurs. The severity of the burn depends on the degree of damage and concentration. If there was contact with a large amount of acid, massive extensive edema develops. When it gets into the oral cavity, the tongue, palate, larynx are burned first, then only the esophagus and intestines. Burns are accompanied by severe pain, vomiting, often with blood impurities.

A dangerous complication is the development of toxic shock, inflammation and infection. If first aid is not provided, toxic hepatitis, dysfunction of the nervous system, severe gastrointestinal lesions develop, which are difficult to combat. Such complications persist for life.

Lime water will help neutralize the acid. It is necessary to give it to the victim to drink in small quantities. If such a remedy is not at hand, warm tea or milk will do. The victim should be wrapped as warmly as possible and a doctor should be called quickly. In case of external burns, the affected area is washed for a long time with a large amount of strong water. After that, wipe with a soda solution, which neutralizes the effect of the acid. A clean bandage is applied to the surface.

If hydrochloric acid enters the body through the respiratory tract, its effect must be neutralized by inhaling a 2% soda solution.

Nitric acid poisoning

It is often used in production and laboratories. Professional swimmers who swim at great depths are also susceptible to poisoning. The fact is that there are large accumulations of vapors of this acid there. It is for this reason that at a depth of more than 60 meters, the first signs of poisoning are already observed: dizziness, memory and coordination impairment. Nitrogen vapors initially have an intoxicating effect, like alcohol, a slight euphoria occurs. As you go deeper, the poisoning intensifies, hallucinations and inappropriate behavior develop. At a depth of more than 100 meters, a narcotic sleep may develop.

The pathogenesis is not fully understood, but many experts believe that this effect is caused by the accumulation of gas molecules in nerve cells.

When the first signs of poisoning appear, first aid should be provided immediately. This consists of quickly going up if the person is at depth. In a laboratory or technical room, the possibility of exposure to vapors on the body should be eliminated as quickly as possible: ventilate the room, turn on the exhaust hood, take the victim out into the fresh air.

Prevention consists of timely provision of fresh air, compliance with safety rules when working with acids indoors. It is also important to conduct preventive examinations among swimmers in order to identify those among them who have increased sensitivity to nitric acid vapors.

Orthophosphoric acid poisoning

The acid is considered a food, it is a permitted additive, known under the marker E338, which is included in many food products. In general, it has a negative effect on our health. If the dosage is exceeded, even poisoning is possible.

In case of poisoning, the ratio of acids and alkalis in the body is disrupted, which leads to increased acidity and disruption of the composition of the crocus. The normal functioning of the stomach and intestines is disrupted. Heartburn and loss of appetite may develop. Usually, a person loses weight and energy, and rapidly loses weight. Gradually, symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, headaches and dizziness join in. If the acid in its pure form gets on the skin, a chemical burn and burning sensation develops. When inhaled, a burning sensation occurs, breathing is disrupted. With prolonged inhalation, the mucous membrane is damaged. It changes its structure, thickens, and swelling develops. The throat is sore, nasal congestion and difficulty breathing are observed.

The most dangerous complications are changes in the blood formula, tooth structure, and respiratory depression.

When the first signs of poisoning appear, the acid must be neutralized by inducing vomiting. After this, the patient is given an enveloping agent - for example, milk, a raw egg. Wait for the doctor to arrive. In case of a burn, the affected areas of the skin are treated with soap and water. You need to wash for at least 10 minutes, then apply a soda bandage. Upon arrival of the doctor, further therapy is carried out, the victim is hospitalized.

Ascorbic acid poisoning

This is a medicine also known by another name – vitamin C. However, this acid can also cause poisoning. Most often, poisoning is a consequence of an overdose. Children are especially often poisoned by consuming an excessive amount of tasty ascorbic acid with glucose. An overdose can also be observed when taking vitamin C and other products that also contain this vitamin. Most often, chronic poisoning is observed, which is not clearly expressed, and many people mistake it for an allergic reaction.

Acute poisoning with ascorbic acid may be indicated by diarrhea, heartburn, severe allergic rashes, headache, vomiting. Also, excitability increases significantly, the nervous system suffers, and unexpected aggression occurs.

Complications of poisoning include dysfunction of the pancreas, kidney disease, gastritis, and peptic ulcer. Excess ascorbic acid leads to chronic vitamin B deficiency. Women may experience menstrual irregularities. Blood clotting is often disrupted and blood pressure increases. Poisoning is especially dangerous during pregnancy, since the fetus then develops rebound scurvy. In the worst case, a miscarriage may occur.

In case of poisoning, you should drink as much water as possible, since the drug is easily dissolved in water and excreted by the kidneys. If you take a large dose of the drug at one time, you should induce vomiting. If you take 20 grams or more, you should simultaneously wash out your stomach. After that, take sorbents that will cleanse the body of toxins. The best option is smecta, or activated carbon. You should drink plenty of water for several days. Usually, this type of poisoning ends well and does not entail serious consequences. Fatal cases are almost unknown.

Acetylsalicylic acid poisoning

Nausea, vomiting, chest pain, loss of coordination indicate poisoning. More serious consequences include alkalosis, acidosis, and multiple organ failure. A large amount of gases, electrolytes, and salicylates are found in the blood. It is on the basis of these data that the diagnosis is confirmed in the analysis. Activated carbon is used immediately. In severe cases, hemodialysis and alkaline diuresis are performed. Poisoning can develop when taking a dosage of 150 mg. The danger of this poisoning is that bezoars can form in the blood, which are difficult to remove and can maintain poisoning for a long time, retaining toxins in the blood. Chronic poisoning is rarely diagnosed. It can only occur in elderly people. Acute poisoning occurs as a result of taking a large dose of the drug. Poisoning is especially dangerous for children, it can even have a fatal outcome.

The pathogenesis is based on the disruption of cellular respiration and nervous regulation of the main physiological processes. The acid-base balance is disrupted, which requires urgent measures. It is necessary to call an ambulance. If timely treatment is not provided, it can end in death. Nausea, vomiting, high temperature indicate poisoning. In advanced cases, disorientation, convulsions, and multiple organ failure are observed.

The patient is immediately given activated charcoal to drink. Give every 4 hours until charcoal appears in the stool. The rest of the treatment is carried out during hospitalization. Blood counts and basic biochemical parameters are monitored. In case of hyperthermia, external cooling is carried out. Hemodialysis may be required.

Oxalic acid poisoning

The main signs of poisoning are burning in the mouth, throat, and esophageal disorders. There is sharp pain, spasm, and vomiting with blood begins. Diarrhea with blood is also common. This can lead to fainting and fever. Urination is impaired, the pulse slows down, and weakness develops. The final stage is coma. Sometimes patients immediately fall into a coma without any warning signs.

The difference from poisoning with other types of acids is that there is practically no damage to the esophagus and stomach, and no burns. It can also occur in a lightning form, in which the patient immediately loses consciousness and dies. In the acute form, the patient falls into a coma, in the subacute form, the symptoms described above develop slowly. Death can occur as a result of damage to the kidneys and liver, which are considered complications.

If it is difficult to determine what kind of poisoning has occurred based on the clinical picture, a urine test is performed. It reveals crystals of oxalic lime, which is presented in the form of envelopes. Treatment consists of repeated gastric lavage. For this, lime water is used. Ice is also applied, and pain relief is administered. Then standard symptomatic and supportive therapy is performed.

Folic acid poisoning

Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin. It must be included in the diet, since the human body does not produce it on its own. Many people develop a deficiency of this substance in the body, so it must be taken in tablet form. Often, an overdose leads to poisoning. However, cases of poisoning are rare, since this requires taking a dose that is 100 times higher than the norm.

Overdose causes intoxication. Such phenomena are especially common during pregnancy. Chronic poisoning is more common, which develops as a result of long-term use of the drug. This leads to the birth of children who have an increased tendency to bronchial asthma and frequent colds. People who take the drug in high doses develop coronary insufficiency and myocardial infarction, as well as numerous pathologies of the heart and blood vessels. Children often develop epileptic seizures, increased excitability, and the level of cyanocobalamin in the blood decreases sharply.

The danger of poisoning is that latent anemia may develop. This is accompanied by neurological disorders. With chronic poisoning, anemia progresses.

An overdose is indicated by the appearance of a bitter metallic taste in the mouth. The activity of the nervous system, heart, stomach, and intestines is disrupted. A person experiences sharp mood swings: increased excitability, irritability can be replaced by apathy and sadness. From the gastrointestinal tract, dyspeptic syndrome develops, skin rash, sleep is sharply disturbed, convulsions and epileptic seizures occur. Behavioral changes occur. In severe cases, a disorder of the structure and function of the kidneys develops, as well as a deficiency of zinc and B vitamins.

The treatment is quite simple. You should immediately stop taking medications and drink at least 3 liters of water. After that, you should induce vomiting and wash out the stomach. This will prevent further absorption of the drug into the blood. Then enterosorbents are given. Activated carbon, enterosgel, and sorbex are most often used. This is usually enough, and there are no serious consequences for health. Despite this, you need to call an ambulance for further assistance and possible hospitalization. During pregnancy, long-term therapy is carried out aimed at restoring the water balance using infusions. Symptomatic therapy is used according to indications.

To prevent poisoning, you must strictly follow the doctor's recommendations and not exceed the recommended dosage of the drug. Alternative methods can be used: you can also replenish the deficiency of folic acid with the help of food products.

Salicylic acid poisoning

Signs of poisoning may include severe headache, dizziness, increased excitability. In severe cases, smooth muscle paralysis and respiratory center damage may develop. Severe consequences of poisoning include disruption of the biochemical cycle and changes in the blood formula. Acidosis may develop, and blood vessels may be damaged. Hemodialysis may be required. Poisoning is often fatal, especially among children.

When the first signs of poisoning appear, you should call an ambulance as soon as possible. Before it arrives, you need to ensure that the patient rests, give him an enveloping agent to drink, for example, jelly, milk, a raw egg. This will prevent further absorption of substances from the stomach into the blood. Then further assistance is provided. If necessary, pain relief is administered. Symptomatic treatment is carried out, aimed at eliminating the main symptoms of the disease. Infusion therapy and hemodialysis may also be required.

Formic acid poisoning

The peculiarities of formic acid poisoning are that at first acidic damage to the stomach develops gradually and imperceptibly. Then symptoms appear: death of the affected cells. Usually the latent period lasts several weeks. Severe complications may develop: metabolic acidosis, intravascular hemolysis, intravascular blood coagulation. Urgent resuscitation measures are required. In case of poisoning in children, a fatal outcome is most often not observed, since the liquid has an unpleasant taste, due to which children do not ingest large quantities.

Fatalities are most often observed with suicidal drug use. Indians are especially likely to take this drug. This method of suicide is also common in Europe.

Formic acid is also used in industry, in dyeing wool, in cosmetic procedures for removing hair from the body, in the manufacture and dyeing of rubber. The toxic dose for oral administration should be at least 10 grams. Poisoning leads to persistent swelling of the nasopharynx, pharynx, and oral cavity. This is accompanied by pain in the neck, back, and stomach pain, shortness of breath, and bloody vomiting. Bleeding occurs later, and damage to the kidneys, liver, and stomach occurs. Quite often it ends in death. If they manage to survive, patients experience intravascular blood clotting, spasms, damage to the esophagus and stomach, which require long-term treatment. The disease is often accompanied by corrosion in the stomach, erosion and perforation of the mucous membrane. Death usually occurs within 36 hours after poisoning. It is excreted in about 2.5 hours. The pathogenesis is based on a violation of blood coagulation processes, which results in numerous bleedings and hemorrhages. Necrosis of tissues occurs in the stomach. Necrosis reaches the deep layers, in particular, the muscular membrane.

The development of poisoning is indicated by a feeling of pain, burning in the mouth. Later, nausea, vomiting, burns of the esophagus and stomach join in. Concomitant symptoms include conjunctivitis, swelling of the mucous membrane of the nose and throat, erythema, hyperemia. If first aid is not provided, bloody vomiting, blisters appear, the esophagus and stomach may swell. After a few days, rapid heartbeat may appear, the person breathes more often. Bruises appear on the body, the heartbeat increases. In this case, there is a delay in urine for several days, or a complete lack of urination. Necrosis of the mucous membranes, blood disorders occur, the person may lose consciousness and fall into a coma.

During diagnostics, laboratory tests show numerous changes in the blood composition and basic biochemical parameters. Changes also occur in the urine. A characteristic sign is that formic acid is found in the blood, which is a direct sign of poisoning. Toxicological studies are also carried out for differential diagnostics. Gastroscopy can detect lesions in the walls of the esophagus and stomach. Similar changes can also be detected by X-ray examination.

First, the stomach is washed, the action of the acid is neutralized. Milk is used for neutralization, but not alkali. As a result of the neutralization reaction between alkali and acid, a large amount of water and carbon dioxide is released. But the most dangerous thing is that the reaction occurs with the release of heat, which can result in a strong chemical and thermal burn. Activated carbon is not used, since it can increase inflammation of the mucous membrane

Further treatment is aimed at stabilizing the condition. Patients with signs of poisoning are hospitalized. Treatment is carried out in the intensive care unit. Constant monitoring of heart rate and respiratory parameters is carried out. A source of pure oxygen should always be nearby, since there is a high probability of developing pulmonary or laryngeal edema, which can result in suffocation. Catheterization of veins is carried out, venous pressure is periodically measured, measures are taken to stabilize blood circulation.

In critical situations, a blood transfusion may be necessary. In many cases, peritoneal dialysis is used. If respiratory function is depressed, intubation and artificial ventilation of the lungs, oxygen therapy are performed. Mannitol is administered to eliminate anuria. Particular attention is paid to the condition of the eyes and skin. The condition of the blood and its main parameters are monitored. Periodic X-ray examination is performed to monitor the gas composition of the blood and lungs. Constant monitoring of fluid intake and output is also performed. If necessary, measures are taken to increase the amount of fluid in the blood. Alkalization of urine and other biological fluids is performed.

Formic acid is widely used in the light industry, in the production of soap, varnishes, perfumes. It is a very strong organic acid, which causes severe poisoning, which often ends fatally. It has an irritating effect on the body, causing a chemical burn. Toxicosis occurs when inhaling vapors, getting on the skin, and also when liquid penetrates inside. Damage to the skin is formed due to painful blisters that do not disappear for a long time.

Phosphoric acid poisoning

This acid is highly toxic. It is formed as a result of oxidation of phosphorus and causes cauterization.

Poisoning occurs in two forms: acute and chronic. Acute - occurs as a result of a single ingestion of a large amount of acid into the body. Chronic poisoning is caused by prolonged exposure to phosphoric acid, its vapors and is most often observed in production. Ingestion of liquid can be accidental or intentional, with the purpose of suicide. When ingested, internal organs are affected, primarily the liver, which neutralizes toxins.

The first signs appear 30 minutes after taking the acid. After an hour, a severe form and death develop. The peculiarity of this type of poisoning is that there is profuse vomiting and diarrhea. At the same time, the vomit and feces, due to the high content of phosphorus in them, glow in the dark. There is also severe pain and burning in the abdomen, headache, dizziness. This condition can last for several days, and internal organs are affected. Parenchymatous hepatitis develops, which is difficult to treat. Hemorrhagic diathesis occurs. Sometimes dystrophic processes occur in the liver and diffuse lesions appear. The critical condition is usually characterized by high excitability and hyperactivity, which are subsequently replaced by a sharp loss of consciousness and a comatose state.

In case of poisoning, it is necessary to provide first aid to the victim as quickly as possible. Immediately induce vomiting in order to clear the stomach of acid and prevent its further absorption into the blood. Then the stomach is washed until the water is clear using a 0.1-0.2% solution of copper sulfate. Saline laxatives, such as Epsom salts, and others are administered. In no case should milk or fatty substances be given, since they promote the dissociation of acid into phosphorus, the dissolution of phosphorus and its passage into the blood.

An antidote can be used that is taken orally. This substance is called Tum. To prevent (or rather slow down the development of hepatitis), large amounts of glucose are administered, vitamin therapy is carried out. During the recovery period, blood transfusions are carried out in small quantities. Symptomatic treatment is carried out: if allergic reactions occur, antihistamines are prescribed, hemostatic therapy is carried out in case of bleeding, and cardiac drugs are prescribed in case of cardiovascular pathology. Therapy is carried out aimed at restoring kidney and liver function.

If phosphoric acid gets on the skin, the affected area should be completely immersed in water, or better yet, in a 5% solution of copper sulfate. Then the damaging substances that affect the skin are mechanically removed. Then a sterile bandage is applied. The lethal dose is 0.05-0.15 g.

Chronic poisoning develops gradually, occurs as a result of vapors entering through the nose or mouth. It manifests itself in constant pain in the teeth and jaws. As a rule, a person simply goes to the dentist and does not suspect possible poisoning. Then pain in the abdomen and stomach, similar to gastritis, joins in. The pain can be sharp or aching. Gradually, the normal activity of the gastrointestinal tract is disrupted, dyspeptic disorders, vomiting, and unstable stool appear. Appetite decreases, a person loses weight, and liver and gallbladder diseases gradually join in. Jaundice appears, internal bleeding may open. During an autopsy, pathologists discover fatty degeneration of internal organs, liver, and kidneys. The heart and blood vessels also suffer.

Prevention of poisoning consists of minimizing the use of phosphoric acid. It is recommended to replace it with other means as much as possible in cases where this is possible. Also, when working with phosphorus, it is necessary to observe all safety precautions, monitor the sealing of production processes, and establish an effective ventilation system in the room. It is important to observe personal hygiene measures. After working with acid, thoroughly wash your hands and face, brush your teeth. It is necessary to undergo regular medical examinations. To prevent poisoning, it is also recommended to take ascorbic acid, calcium, and vitamin D.

In acute poisoning, multiple gastric lavages are performed, laxatives, cleansing and medicinal enemas are administered. Abundant alkaline drinks and the use of large quantities of mucous solutions are necessary. Vitamin therapy is also indicated.

In case of chronic poisoning, symptomatic therapy and vitamin therapy are carried out.

Lactic acid poisoning

Lactic acid is a fairly dangerous acid with toxic properties, which belongs to the group of carbolic acids. It is formed in the human body as a result of hemolysis, and is also a product of the metabolism of anaerobic microorganisms, which are representatives of the normal microflora of the human intestine. It is especially intensively formed in muscles during long and hard work.

The amount of lactic acid in the body normally indicates normal carbohydrate metabolism. The main processes occur in the liver. With some diseases and pathological conditions, the amount of acid can increase. For example, with intense muscle contractions, cramps. With hypoxia, there is also a sharp increase in the amount of lactic acid in the body. An increased amount of acid develops with some tumors, metabolic disorders.

With a high content of lactic acid in the blood, intoxication may occur. With lactic acid intoxication, benign tumors can become malignant, cancerous. This is due to the fact that during oncological processes, intensive glycolysis occurs in degenerated cells and tissues. The process occurs with an intensive release of energy, due to which active unimpeded tumor growth occurs. The load on the liver and kidneys increases, resulting in the development of hepatitis, cirrhosis, renal and cardiac failure, as well as anemia. Due to the increase in glucose in the blood, which occurs in parallel with the growth of lactic acid levels, diabetes mellitus develops.

When the level of glucose and lactic acid increases, the alkaline reserve of the blood decreases and the amount of ammonia increases. This leads to respiratory dysfunction, muscle weakness, nervous system and mental disorders.

Lactic acid is also used in industry, as well as for disinfection of premises, treatment rooms, wards. It is a part of antifungal preparations, which are used to treat the walls of buildings, premises infected with fungus. It is used as a cauterizing agent. Cases of poisoning with vapors of this acid are often observed. The pathogenesis and clinical picture of poisoning are no different from cases when natural lactic acid is intensively produced in the body.

Lactic acid is also used as a food additive to food products, canned goods, and preserves. It is permitted for use in unlimited quantities, since it is a natural product and is considered a relatively safe agent that does not have a negative effect on humans. However, cases of poisoning are not uncommon.

In case of poisoning, convulsions, headache, tremors, and shaking of the body develop. The person breaks out in a cold sweat and may lose consciousness. It is necessary to immediately call an ambulance, give the patient warm water or weak tea without sugar to drink. It is important to cover the person, immobilize him and leave him completely alone until the doctors arrive.

Then, appropriate symptomatic therapy and correction of metabolic disorders are carried out. Blood indices are monitored. Special therapy aimed at restoring the liver and blood transfusion may be required.

Battery acid poisoning

Sulfuric battery acid is a product used to produce electrolytes, or lead batteries. It is highly toxic. When it comes into contact with skin and mucous membranes, it causes severe burns; when ingested, it causes acute poisoning. Chronic poisoning may develop with prolonged systematic inhalation of vapors.

If acid gets on the skin, it should be washed off with water as quickly as possible. Then you can limit the damage to a first-degree burn. There is a burning sensation and redness. If you do not provide timely assistance, more severe burns may develop, with damage to the deep layers of the skin.

When pouring liquid, you must use protective glasses, otherwise splashes can cause eye burns.

When ingested through the oral cavity, the substance is quickly absorbed into the blood. This causes a sweetish taste in the mouth, profuse salivation, nausea, and vomiting. When the first signs of poisoning appear, the patient should be given a fatty substance, milk, which will slightly reduce the toxicity of the substance. Then you should immediately call an ambulance.

The danger of the substance is that it weakens smooth muscles and causes rapid suffocation. In this case, the victim should be given menthol to sniff. In a critical situation, a tracheotomy is performed. If no help is provided within a few hours, the stomach is perforated and severe bleeding develops. Death occurs either from suffocation or from gastric pathology.

Hydrofluoric acid poisoning

Hydrofluoric acid is an aqueous solution of hydrogen fluoride, which has toxic properties. It is used in the aluminum industry, for the production of silicate glass, and silicon etching. It is part of various mixtures and polishes for the electrochemical industry.

It has a mild narcotic effect in case of poisoning. It has a strong effect on the digestive system. When inhaled, it irritates the mucous membranes and skin, causing burns accompanied by painful spasms. Later, erosions and ulcers appear, which can bleed. It has a complex effect. It also negatively affects the embryo, causing various mutations. It can provoke cancer. It pollutes the environment, belongs to the second hazard class.

The peculiarity is that when it gets on the skin surface, there is no immediate sharp pain. The substance is quickly absorbed, after which it has a toxic effect on the entire body. After this, a chemical burn forms at the site of damage, which is accompanied by pain and severe swelling. Symptoms may not appear immediately, but about a day after getting on the skin.

When inhaling hydrofluoric acid vapors, it becomes difficult to breathe, blood pressure drops, swelling and nasal congestion, and hyperemia of the mucous membrane are observed. Suffocation may occur within 15 minutes. Before the doctor arrives, the affected area should be washed with plenty of water.

If the acid gets inside, through the mouth, a burn of the esophagus and stomach is observed. Bleeding may open. Liquid is heard in the lungs, a person may suffocate from pulmonary edema, lose consciousness or fall into a coma. It is necessary to monitor blood counts, pulse, pressure and respiratory rate.

A complication may be a violation of calcium metabolism, resulting in heart failure. In the treatment of poisoning, calcium gluconate is often used, which allows restoring the balance of ions and normalizing metabolism. In severe cases, calcium chloride is infused through the arteries.

Treatment is aimed at stabilizing vital signs and neutralizing the effects of the acid. After that, symptomatic treatment is carried out.

Glyphosate acid poisoning

It is a derivative of the amino acid glycine. It is used as a herbicide for spraying plants. It is considered a substance with a low degree of toxicity. However, in practice, poisoning with it occurs quite often. The pathogenesis is based on the development of oxidative stress and apoptosis of preadipocytes. There is evidence that it can have a carcinogenic effect, causing chromosomal mutations.

Antidote for acid poisoning

Antidote therapy is used to neutralize and treat acid poisoning. This is a specific therapy aimed at neutralizing the toxic effect by administering an antidote. The antidote blocks the effect of the toxin on the body through various reactions. An antidote is effective when acid poisoning is in the early stages. Each acid has its own antidote. Often, sorbents act as antidotes, cleansing the body and removing the toxin. The action of the antidote is based on various mechanisms. Some of them inactivate substances and remove them, others inactivate enzymes, affect the structure and metabolic properties of toxic substances. Some act by reactivating enzymes or entering into antagonistic relationships with them.

Read more about treatment in this article.

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