Lactic acid overdose

Definition

Poisoning from an overdose of lactic acid.

Poisonous Ingredient

• lactic acid
  

Where Found

• some vaginal douches
  

Symptoms
If swallowed:

• burning pain in the throat or mouth
  
• inability to breathe because of swelling of the face or throat
  
• brownish stains around the mouth
  
• bloody diarrhea (coffee-ground like material)
  
• vomiting blood (coffee-ground like material)
  
• low blood pressure
  

If there is skin contact:

• brownish stains in the area the acid contacted the skin
  
• burns
  

Home Treatment

If swallowed:

• DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING.
  
• Give water or milk as soon as possible to dilute the acid.
  
• If the patient is vomiting, keep administering fluids (water/milk). It is very important to dilute the acid to minimize damage to the tissues.
  

If there is skin contact:

• Wash the area thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes.
  
• Remove any clothes containing the acid, washing the affected skin beneath the clothes.
  

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

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

Poison Control, or a local emergency number
If you are concerned about a lactic acid overdose, go to your nearest emergency room or call poison control. See poison control centers for the national telephone number. Take the container with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room