Naphthalene

Naphthalene: a dangerous substance that can lead to poisoning

Naphthalene is a chemical that is widely used in households as the main ingredient in bug balls and other insect and rodent control products. However, naphthalene is a poisonous substance that can cause serious illness and even death if not consumed correctly.

Upon contact with naphthalene, local irritation of the skin and mucous membranes is possible. When ingested, naphthalene causes stupor, stupor, dyspeptic disorders and abdominal pain. Prolonged inhalation of naphthalene vapors can lead to methemoglobinemia, which manifests itself as cyanosis and can lead to serious diseases of the cardiovascular system.

In addition, naphthalene can cause toxic damage to the kidneys and liver. Mothball poisoning is especially dangerous in children, since they have fewer defense mechanisms against toxic substances.

The lethal dose of naphthalene is about 10 grams, so any ingestion of this substance into the body should be considered a serious health threat.

Treatment for mothball poisoning should be immediate and include gastric lavage, laxatives, and administration of a sodium bicarbonate solution to alkaline the urine. In the case of methemoglobinemia, it is necessary to apply the same treatment methods as for aniline poisoning. Additionally, calcium chloride and ascorbic acid may be used to relieve some symptoms, as well as rutin and riboflavin to treat acute kidney failure.

In conclusion, mothballs are a dangerous substance that can cause serious illness and even death if used incorrectly. Therefore, it is necessary to take all precautions when working with it and store it out of the reach of children. In case of naphthalene poisoning, you should immediately seek medical help.