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Oxalic acid

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:

• Anti-rust products
• Bleaches
• Metal cleaners
• Rhubarb leaves

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain
• Collapse
• Convulsions
• Kidney problems
• Low blood pressure
• Mouth pain
• Shock
• Throat pain
• Tremors
• Vomiting
• Weak pulse

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:

• Patient's age, weight, and condition
• Name of the product (ingredients and strengths, if known)
• Time it was swallowed
• Amount swallowed

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:

• Breathing support
• Medicine (antidote) to reverse the effect of the poison
• Medicines to treat symptoms

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.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.