Chlorine is a chemical used in cleaning products, such as bleach, and for disinfecting swimming pools.
Along with other cleaning ingredients, chlorine’s primary role in cleaning products is disinfecting by killing germs.
If you or someone else experiences signs of chlorine poisoning, its crucial to get prompt emergency medical attention.
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You might also inhale very diluted chlorine in the air around a pool.
Even swallowing a few drops of pool water should not be dangerous.
The symptoms can either start immediately or be delayed for a few hours and worsen rapidly.
You should look out for redness, itching, pain, or blisters.
The first thing to do is get away from the exposure.
Treatment for Poisoning
The medical treatment for chlorine poisoning involves supportive interventions for the adverse consequences.
You might need oxygen supplementation through anasal cannula.
This is a small plastic tube thats placed in your nose while you are awake and breathing.
If you have severe lung damage, you may needmechanical respiratory support.
Your lung functionwould be monitored as your lungs heal.
If youve had a skin burn due to chlorine, you will need medication to prevent a skin infection.
Your healthcare providers will also protect your skin with medication and bandages placed on your skin until it heals.
During your healing process after swallowing chlorine,you might also receive intravenous fluids with electrolytes (minerals).
Assessing Overall Risk
Anyone can experience chlorine poisoning from excessive exposure.
Its a good idea to shower after swimming in a pool.
Some people like to wear swimming goggles to prevent a burning sensation in the eyes.
Wearing a face mask while cleaning with chlorine products may help prevent you from inhaling the chemicals.
If cleaning is uncomfortable for your eyes, you might also consider wearing glasses or goggles.
Chlorine-Based Household Cleaner Alternatives
A variety of cleansers and disinfectants are on the market.
You might consider using organic products ormaking your own products.
However,mixing chlorine bleach with ammonia or other chemical can produce dangerous fumes.
ensure you understand the chemical interactions before mixing different types of products.
Summary
Chlorine is a common ingredient in cleaners and disinfectants.
Chlorine compounds are effective at destroying germs, preventing infections, and stopping the growth of many harmful microorganisms.
Inhaling chlorine can injure your nose, throat, and lungs.
Swallowing chlorine can harm your throat, esophagus, and digestive system.
Getting chlorine on your skin or eyes can lead to burns.
Treatment for chlorine poisoning can help your body heal.
National Capital Poison Control Center.Chlorine gas: get the facts.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Healthy swimming: chloramines and pool operation.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.Medical management guidelines for chlorine.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Chemical emergencies: chlorine.
Mount Sinai.Sodium hypochlorite poisoning.
National Capital Poison Center.What happens when you drink bleach?
