Alternative names 
Chelating agents

Definition
Poisoning from an ingestion of a steam iron cleaner.

Poisonous Ingredient

 
• Chelating agents

Where Found

 
• Various steam iron cleaner products

Symptoms

 
• Body as a whole       o Severe pain in the mouth       o Collapse  
• Respiratory       o Breathing difficulty due to throat swelling  
• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat       o Severe pain in the throat  
• Gastrointestinal       o Severe abdominal pain       o Diarrhea  
• Heart and blood vessels       o Rapid drop in blood pressure

Home Treatment
DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING.

If on the skin or in the eyes, flush with lots of water for at least 15 minutes.

If swallowed, drink water or milk IMMEDIATELY. If the patient is vomiting, keep giving water or milk.

Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following:

 
• The patient’s age, weight, and condition  
• The name of the product (ingredients and strengths, if known)  
• The time it was swallowed  
• The amount swallowed

Poison Control, or a local emergency number
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

 
• Give fluids.  
• Treat the symptoms.

Expectations (prognosis)

Most chelating agents are relatively non-toxic. Recovery is likely.

Medical Encyclopedia

All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.