Fluohydric acid

Alternative names

Hydrofluoric acid

Definition

Poisoning from an overdose of hydrofluoric acid.

Poisonous Ingredient

Hydrofluoric acid

Where Found

• Used in glass etching
  
• Used in industry as a corrosive agent
  
• Used in the production of computer screens
  
• Used in fluorescent bulbs
  
• Used in the refinement of high octane gasoline
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

From swallowing:

• Body as a whole
  o Severe pain in the mouth
  o Fever
  
• Respiratory
  o Inability to breathe as the throat swells shut
  
• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  o Severe pain in the throat
  
• Gastrointestinal
  o Severe abdominal pain
  o Vomiting
  
• Heart and blood vessels
  o Rapid drop in blood pressure
  o Ventricular fibrillation
  

From inhalation:

• Body as a whole
  o Chills
  o Fever
  o Tight chest
  
• Respiratory
  o Coughing
  o Pulmonary edema
  
• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  o Choking
  
• Skin
  o Bluish colored lips and fingernails
  

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. Take to emergency department immediately.

For extremities affected irrigate with water and transport to emergency department immediately.

If the acid is swallowed or inhaled, transport to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

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