Lye

Home treatment:

DO NOT INDUCE EMESIS (VOMITING)! If the poison is on the skin or in the eyes, flush with lots of water for at least 15 minutes. If swallowed, drink water or milk IMMEDIATELY. If patient is vomiting keep giving water or milk.

Before calling emergency:

Determine the following:

• 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 patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Bring the poison 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.
  • Treat the symptoms.

• for inhalation:
  • Treat the symptoms.

Expectations (prognosis):

Prognosis will depend on how much was ingested and how rapidly the alkali was diluted .

Extensive damage to the mouth, throat, and stomach are possible. The ultimate outcome will depend on the extent of this damage.

Damage continues to occur to the esophagus and stomach for several weeks after the alkali was swallowed.

Death may occur as long as a month after ingestion.