Formaldehyde poisoning
Formaldehyde is a colorless gas with a pungent unpleasant odor, readily soluble in alcohol and water. Its 40% aqueous solution is called formalin.
Source: depositphotos.com
Formaldehyde is widely used in medicine, cosmetology and many industries (production of household chemicals, cosmetics, plastics, plywood, cardboard and paper, pharmaceuticals, fur dressing).
Formaldehyde is a strong poison, with a poisonous ability comparable to arsenic and hydrocyanic acid. Possesses carcinogenic properties. Failure to comply with safety precautions when working with it can lead to poisoning with serious consequences.
How does formaldehyde poisoning occur?
Formaldehyde poisoning can develop by inhalation of its vapors, oral ingestion of an aqueous solution (formalin), or by contact with the skin.
Formaldehyde triggers the process of coagulation of proteins entering the protoplasm of cells, this explains its cauterizing and irritating effect on tissues.
In case of formaldehyde poisoning, the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract are significantly affected, which is clinically manifested by the development of dyspeptic symptoms.
Irritating the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, formaldehyde causes a number of local and systemic disorders that can cause reflex respiratory arrest, the development of laryngeal edema up to mechanical asphyxia. A pronounced pain reaction contributes to the development of shock.
In the body, formaldehyde is oxidized to form formic acid. This compound is excreted by the kidneys, causing serious damage in them, leading to the development of hemorrhagic nephritis and acute renal failure.
Poisoning symptoms
Formaldehyde poisoning is acute and chronic. Acute develops when a significant amount of poison enters the body in a short period of time. Chronic - with prolonged ingestion of low doses.
In acute inhalation formaldehyde poisoning, the victim has:
- spastic cough;
- labored breathing;
- dizziness;
- feelings of fear and anxiety;
- violation of coordination of movements;
- convulsions;
- pulmonary edema.
Signs of oral formaldehyde poisoning:
- vomiting mixed with blood;
- diarrhea;
- pain and burning in the oropharynx and epigastric region.
Due to severe laryngeal edema, respiratory arrest may occur.
In the future, hemorrhagic nephritis develops.
When the skin comes into contact with formaldehyde, dermatitis occurs, which can later turn into eczema.
Symptoms that suggest chronic formaldehyde poisoning are:
- severe headaches;
- pallor of the skin and mucous membranes;
- decrease in working capacity;
- severe weakness;
- weight loss;
- the appearance of euphoria or, on the contrary, a depressed mood;
- sleep disorders;
- labored breathing;
- development of bronchial asthma;
- convulsions.
Source: depositphotos.com
First aid for formaldehyde poisoning
In case of poisoning with formaldehyde vapors, the victim should be immediately evacuated to fresh air.
A few drops of ammonia are applied to a piece of cotton wool and held in front of the victim's nose. Ammonia reacts with formaldehyde to form a compound that is non-toxic to humans - urotropine.
In case of oral poisoning with formaldehyde, it is impossible to wash the stomach at the prehospital stage! In this case, an abundant drink is organized for the victim. As an antidote, you can take Ammonium-anise drops.
In case of damage to the eyes, they are thoroughly washed with running water, then, in order to reduce the pain syndrome, 2-3 drops of a 0.5% solution of Novocaine are instilled into each conjunctival sac.
If formaldehyde gets on the skin, they are thoroughly washed with running water, and then wiped with napkins moistened with a 5% solution of ammonia.
When is medical attention needed?
Formaldehyde poisoning is severe and is accompanied by life-threatening complications, so it is vital that the victim is treated as soon as possible. At the first signs of formaldehyde intoxication, an ambulance team must be called immediately.
In case of respiratory disorders, the victims are administered respiratory analeptics (Lobelin, Tsityton). Measures are being taken to eliminate laryngeal edema.
To stop psychomotor agitation, tranquilizers are used (Relanium, Sibazon, Seduxen). With severe pain syndrome, the appointment of narcotic analgesics (Promedol, Morphine hydrochloride, Omnopon) is indicated.
In case of oral poisoning with formaldehyde in a hospital, the victim is washed through the stomach through a thick probe. In this case, a 2% solution of chloride, acetate or ammonium carbonate is used as an antidote, since these substances bind formaldehyde and convert it into urotropin.
To prevent acute renal and / or hepatic failure, a glucose-novocaine mixture is administered intravenously.
Possible consequences
The prognosis for formaldehyde poisoning is serious. Acute forms of intoxication often occur with acute renal and / or hepatic failure, the outcome of which may be the transition of the disease to a chronic form.
In case of chronic poisoning, the risk of cancer is significantly increased in victims.
Prevention
For the prevention of industrial poisoning with formalin, it is necessary to comply with safety requirements:
- use personal protective equipment;
- organize supply and exhaust ventilation in the room;
- do not smoke or eat in the work area.
In living quarters with new carpeting or new MDF furniture, it is necessary to organize thorough ventilation until the specific smell is no longer felt.
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Elena Minkina Doctor anesthesiologist-resuscitator About the author
Education: graduated from the Tashkent State Medical Institute, specializing in general medicine in 1991. Repeatedly passed refresher courses.
Work experience: anesthesiologist-resuscitator of the city maternity complex, resuscitator of the hemodialysis department.
The information is generalized and provided for informational purposes only. At the first sign of illness, see your doctor. Self-medication is hazardous to health!
