What Happens If You Drink Nail Polish Remover?
Ingesting nail polish remover, even a small amount, can have serious and potentially life-threatening consequences. The primary ingredient in most nail polish removers is acetone, a highly volatile and toxic chemical. Drinking it can lead to a range of immediate and long-term health problems. This article will explore the potential effects, emphasizing the critical importance of seeking immediate medical attention if accidental ingestion occurs.
What are the immediate effects of drinking nail polish remover?
The immediate effects of drinking nail polish remover depend on several factors, including the amount ingested, the concentration of acetone, and the individual's health. However, some common symptoms include:
- Central Nervous System Depression: Acetone affects the central nervous system, potentially leading to dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and even loss of consciousness. Severe cases can result in coma.
- Gastrointestinal Distress: The ingestion of acetone can cause significant irritation to the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Severe cases can lead to internal bleeding.
- Respiratory Problems: Acetone can irritate the lungs and airways, causing coughing, shortness of breath, and in severe cases, respiratory distress or failure. Inhaling the fumes after ingestion can exacerbate these problems.
- Cardiac Arrhythmias: In high doses, acetone can disrupt the heart's rhythm, leading to potentially fatal cardiac arrhythmias.
- Skin Irritation: While this is less relevant to ingestion, any contact with the skin after vomiting can cause further irritation.
What are the long-term effects of drinking nail polish remover?
Even if immediate symptoms are mild or seem to resolve quickly, drinking nail polish remover can have serious long-term consequences. These can include:
- Kidney Damage: Acetone is toxic to the kidneys and can cause long-term damage, leading to kidney failure in severe cases.
- Liver Damage: Similar to the kidneys, the liver can also be significantly damaged by acetone ingestion, potentially leading to liver failure.
- Neurological Damage: Prolonged or repeated exposure to acetone can damage the nervous system, leading to neurological problems such as cognitive impairment, memory loss, and peripheral neuropathy.
- Developmental Issues (in children): Acetone exposure in children, especially during pregnancy or early development, can cause serious developmental issues.
What should I do if someone drinks nail polish remover?
Do not induce vomiting. This is a crucial point. Induced vomiting can cause further damage to the esophagus and throat.
Instead, immediately call emergency medical services (911 in the US or your local equivalent). Describe the situation clearly, including the amount ingested, the type of nail polish remover, and the individual's symptoms. Follow any instructions given by the emergency dispatcher. If possible, have the product container readily available for emergency personnel.
Is nail polish remover flammable?
Yes, nail polish remover containing acetone is highly flammable. Keep it away from open flames or sources of ignition.
What other ingredients are in nail polish remover besides acetone?
While acetone is the primary active ingredient, nail polish remover may also contain other chemicals, including fragrances, plasticizers, and stabilizers. These additives can further complicate the toxicity profile and worsen the effects of ingestion. The exact composition varies by brand.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you or someone you know has ingested nail polish remover, seek immediate medical attention. This article is not a substitute for professional medical care.
