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Oxalic acid

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Contents of this page:

Definition   

Oxalic acid is a poisonous, colorless substance. This article discusses poisoning from exposure to oxalic acid.

Poisonous Ingredient   

Oxalic acid

Where Found   

Oxalic acid may be found in some:

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms   

Home Care   

Call Poison Control. DO NOT make the person vomit. Give milk or water immediately, preferably milk.

Before Calling Emergency   

Determine the following information:

Poison Control   

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. 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 the container with you to the hospital, if possible.

See National Poison Control center.

What to Expect at the Emergency Room   

The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. The patient may receive:

Outlook (Prognosis)   

How well a patient does depends on the amount of poison swallowed and how quickly treatment was received. The faster a patient gets medical help, the better the chance for recovery. Severe damage to the mouth, gastrointestinal tract, or airway may occur and quickly cause death if not treated.

Update Date: 1/19/2007

Updated by: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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