Sodium hypochlorite poisoning

Alternative Names

Symptoms

Watered-down (diluted) sodium hypochlorite generally causes only mild stomach irritation. Swallowing larger amounts can cause more serious symptoms. 

NEVER mix ammonia with sodium hypochlorite (bleach or bleach-containing products). This common household error produces a toxic gas that can cause choking and serious breathing problems.  

Symptoms of sodium hypochlorite poisoning may include:

• Body as a whole
  • Pain in the mouth
  • Possible burns on esophagus
• Respiratory
  • Coughing (from the fumes)
  • Possible aspiration into lungs
• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  • Pain in the throat
  • Burning, red eyes
  • Gagging sensation
• Skin
  • Irritation of the exposed area
  • Burns
  • Blistering
• Gastrointestinal
  • Stomach or abdominal pain
  • Vomiting
• Heart and blood vessels
  • Low blood pressure
  • Bradycardia (slow heartbeat)
  • Chest pain
  • Shock
• Nervous system
  • Delirium
  • Coma

References

Ford MD, Clinical Toxicology. 1st ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2001:753.

Agabiti N, Ancona C, Forastiere F, et al. Short term respiratory effects of acute exposure to chlorine due to a swimming pool accident. Occup Environ Med. 2001 Jun;58(6):399-404.

Lambert H, Manel J, Gabrion I. Poisoning by household products. Rev Prat. 2000 Feb 15;50(4):365-71.