eli5: On the packaging of toilet cleaner and an article on mouthwash says that if ingested, do not induce vomitting, why is this? Wouldn’t it be better to get rid of as much of the harmful liquid as possible? What harm can happen if vomitting is induced?

Question

eli5: On the packaging of toilet cleaner and an article on mouthwash says that if ingested, do not induce vomitting, why is this? Wouldn’t it be better to get rid of as much of the harmful liquid as possible? What harm can happen if vomitting is induced?

In: 1821

Answer 1

Toilet bowl cleaner tends to be very acidic. pH of 1-3 depending on the type. You stomach and proximal duodenum have the ability to handle that and neutralize it as it enters your intestines.

Your esophagus however does not and will be damaged twice by vomiting it back up. It’s better to dilute it with water and save the esophagus from more damage.

The effects of chemical scalding of the esophagus can be terrible. Look up spit fistula.