Hydrochloric acid

Home treatment:

DO NOT INDUCE EMESIS (VOMITING).

If the acid is on the skin or in the eyes, flush with lots of water for at least 15 minutes.

If the acid was swallowed, give water or milk IMMEDIATELY. If the person is vomiting, keep giving water or milk. Give milk of magnesia if on hand 4 to 6 oz.

For inhalation poisoning, transport the person to an area of fresh air.

Before calling emergency:

Determine the following information:

• the patient's age, weight, and condition
• the name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
• the time it was swallowed
• the amount swallowed

Poison Control, or a local emergency number:

They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the person to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room:

Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:
For swallowed poison:

• Give fluids.
• Give milk of magnesia.
• Treat the symptoms.

For inhalation:

• Treat the symptoms.

Expectations (prognosis):

The prognosis (probable outcome) depends on how rapidly the acid was diluted and neutralized. Extensive damage to the mouth, throat, and stomach are possible. The ultimate outcome depends on the extent of this damage.