What are the side effects of moth balls?

What are the side effects of moth balls?

Inhalation of a moth ball or its fumes can exacerbate these symptoms. Acute exposure can even lead to temporary blindness or cataracts. Coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath are all common side effects of moth ball inhalation.

Is it safe to eat a moth ball?

Moth balls contain a highly toxic substance called naphthalene. Although the FDA has determined moth balls to be safe for general use, the inhalation of a moth ball or its fumes can cause serious health problems. The effects of naphthalene poisoning are particularly severe in infants and young children.

What happens to your eyes when you breathe in a moth ball?

Burning Eyes. When handling moth balls, your eyes may start to burn and itch from their chemical fumes. Inhalation of a moth ball or its fumes can exacerbate these symptoms. Acute exposure can even lead to temporary blindness or cataracts.

What should I do if I inhaled a moth ball?

If you or someone you know has inhaled a moth ball, visit your doctor or call poison control immediately. After being exposed to naphthalene, be alert for the sudden onset of a headache. This can indicate poisoning and should not be taken lightly. An upset stomach and vomiting can both be symptoms of moth ball inhalation.

What happens to your body when you eat a mothball?

Mothballs usually contain either dicholorobenzene or naphthalene to kill the moths. The second chemical is older and tends to cause more health problems. When swallowed, it kills red blood cells, which tires the body out and makes it weak and fatigued.

What are the side effects of moth ball inhalation?

Coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath are all common side effects of moth ball inhalation. Seek medical assistance to ensure that regular breathing is re-established. Diarrhea can indicate naphthalene poisoning.

What to do if you swallow a mothball?

Anytime someone swallows poison, the body may try to get rid of it by opening up the sluices. Give the victim plenty of water in small but steady doses or have him suck on ice if he can’t keep fluids down. Mothballs emit fumes that kill the moths, which can cause problems in humans in high enough doses.

What happens to your eyes when you get a moth ball?

If the person that inhaled the moth ball is young, take them to the doctor at the first sign of gastrointestinal distress. When handling moth balls, your eyes may start to burn and itch from their chemical fumes. Inhalation of a moth ball or its fumes can exacerbate these symptoms. Acute exposure can even lead to temporary blindness or cataracts.