Poisoning from exposure to oxalic acid.

Oxalic acid

• Some bleaches
• Some anti-rust products
• Some metal cleaners
• Rhubarb leaves

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

• Pain in the mouth
• Tremors
• Convulsions
• Collapse
• Shock
• Pain in the throat
• Kidney damage
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Weak pulse
• Low blood pressure

Call Poison Control. DO NOT induce vomiting. Give milk or water immediately, preferably water.

Determine the following:

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

If you suspect possible poisoning, call 1-800-222-1222 anywhere in the U.S. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the U.S. use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Take any containers with you to the emergency room, if possible.

See Poison Control centers.

The patient's airway and breathing may be supported. An antidote to the substance may be given intravenously (IV) or by mouth (orally). Additional symptoms are treated on an individual basis.

The extent of injury is determined by the amount of acid ingested and the time to treatment. Severe ulceration of the mouth, GI tract, or airway may occur and can be rapidly fatal if not treated.