Shampoo is a liquid used to clean the scalp and hair, and while generally considered relatively non-toxic, accidental or intentional swallowing can raise concerns. This article provides comprehensive information on the effects of swallowing shampoo, potential risks, and appropriate steps to take. This information is intended for educational purposes and should not be used to treat or manage an actual poison exposure. In case of an emergency, always seek immediate medical help.
Shampoo is generally considered relatively nontoxic. However, the detergents and other chemicals they contain can cause irritation. Most people make a full recovery after swallowing shampoo.
Shampoos are perfumed cosmetic care products used for hair washing, scalp cleaning, and to provide luster to hair. There are many types of shampoos, including:
Shampoos are made from a variety of chemicals that include surfactants (such as sodium lauryl and ammonium laureth sulfate), preservatives, perfumes, and coloring agents. Some of these chemicals may be toxic.
Most exposures to personal care products occur in the home, but many also occur at salons. A child may get bored while waiting for a parent to get their hair cut or nails done and may go "exploring." Manicurist tables are just the right height for a toddler to be able to reach the top. Few salons are baby-proof.
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Your child may be attracted to these products for a number of reasons:
The signs and symptoms of shampoo ingestion can vary from one individual to another, ranging from mild to severe.
In rare cases, an allergic reaction may occur, leading to:
While swallowing a small amount of shampoo is usually harmless, it's important to know when to seek medical help.
Seek immediate medical help if an allergic reaction occurs.
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You should call the national Poison Control hotline (Poisonhelp.org) 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.
Contact your doctor if your child has a weak immune system (such as sickle cell disease, HIV, cancer, spleen removed, organ transplant, taking oral steroids) and also eaten spoiled food or feces (poop).
Do NOT induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional or Poison Control.
If a visit to the emergency room takes place, the health care provider will measure and monitor the person's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Blood and urine tests may be done. The person may receive:
Pica is a chronic habit of eating non-food items, common in the age range of 18 months to adulthood. Common items ingested include dirt, clay, paper, ice, and crayons. Complications can include lead poisoning from eating paint chips, other poisoning, and worms from eating animal poop. A major cause is anemia (low red blood cell count) from low iron. Other causes are obsessive-compulsive disorder, stress, or modeling a parent. When iron medicine is started, pica often goes away in 1 week.
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It is useful to be aware of the management of instances of accidental ingestion of other substances.
The products below are harmless if tasted or swallowed:
The items listed below when eaten are usually safe and not a problem in small quantities. If a larger amount is swallowed, call the Poison Center.
Eating a spoiled food is often harmless, but sometimes, it can cause mild vomiting or diarrhea. Serious symptoms are rare. The safest plan is to throw out spoiled or moldy foods.
Eating your own feces is always harmless, as all of these germs are already in the child's body and digestive tract. Eating another human's feces is probably harmless if that person is healthy now. If the other person has diarrhea, your child may also develop it. Eating feces from an animal is usually harmless, but there's a small risk of getting diarrhea and a very small risk of getting worms.
Most all people swallow some dirt, and most children will do fine. There's a very small risk of getting diarrhea.
While you cannot keep these and other products out of the home, it is important to realize their potential dangers to your children.
Hair permanents and relaxers are dangerous in very small amounts, even if marked "no lye." They are made of strong bases and are known as caustics which can cause severe burns to your child's mouth, throat and stomach. The burns may not show up immediately, but may develop over a few hours. A child who swallows this type of product may appear fine right after the exposure, but will develop symptoms several hours later.
Most hair coloring products contain a chemical called paraphenylenediamene, which can cause severe vomiting when ingested. Simple skin contact may result in an allergic reaction such as swelling of your child's face, neck and throat.
Hair sprays and gels contain alcohol, but in such small amounts that a taste does not present a problem.
Nail primers, which are used to roughen the surface of the fingernail, are among the most dangerous products. They are highly acidic and can cause immediate, severe burns of your child's skin, mouth, throat and stomach.
Nail polishes, nail strengtheners, and nail polish removers are rarely swallowed in large quantities because they have an unpleasant taste and may cause an irritating sensation in the mouth. However, they can be harmful if large quantities are ingested. Choose a nonacetone nail polish remover. The active ingredient in non-acetone nail polish removers is ethyl acetate, which is much less toxic to children than acetone.
Nail glues are not poisonous, but they bind instantly. Large amounts of glue can get stuck in the throat and, if exposed to the eyes, may glue them shut.
Creams, lotions, foundation, lipstick, rouge and eye makeup are nontoxic, but they can cause diarrhea if eaten in large quantities.
Astringents, skin cleansers and make-up removers contain alcohol or camphor. They are potentially poisonous, but due to their unpleasant taste they are rarely ingested in large enough amounts to cause concern.
Deodorants are not poisonous, but they will irritate the mouth and can cause diarrhea when large amounts are eaten. Toothpaste is not poisonous in small quantities, but it may be irritating to the mouth and stomach. Fluoride-containing toothpaste is more of a concern. Use pure cornstarch baby powder rather than powder containing talc.
Swallowing shampoo is usually not a serious issue, but it's important to be aware of the potential effects and when to seek medical attention. By taking preventive measures and knowing how to respond, you can ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and your family.
Disclaimer: This health information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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