This article discusses the Potential risks of potassium carbonate poisoning.
Potassium carbonate, also known as potash, is a base commonly used in chemistry. It is white, granular and transparent, which tends to absorb water from the air. Potash is easily produced by pouring water on the ashes of burnt plants, which are kept in a large pot, and then the solution evaporates.
Potassium carbonate is mostly found in glass and various types of soap, including hand soap or dishwasher detergent.
Contemporary applications depend on the basic properties of the compound, including its ability to release heat (exotherm) and as a useful desiccant. Its water-absorbing properties reveal applications in the chemical industry and cosmetics. In addition, K2CO3 is used to reduce the acidity of wine and is used as a desiccant for fruit processing, in addition to compounds for inks and toners, disinfectants and cleaning products.
There is no sign that this chemical is carcinogenic or mutagenic, but if it comes in contact with skin and eyes, it can be swallowed or inhaled this is a Benefits and harms of potassium carbonate.
When in contact with skin, potassium carbonate is irritating, especially after prolonged contact.
It involves removing any contaminated clothing or shoes, followed by washing the affected area for 15 minutes and applying conditioner. In cases of prolonged contact, disinfection with antibacterial cream may be necessary and it is recommended that the patient consult a physician.
Potassium carbonate is highly irritating to the eyes and mucous membranes. Prolonged exposure may cause permanent corneal damage, including vision loss.
The first step in first aid is to remove glasses or contact lenses and then rinse the eyes with cold water for 15 minutes. Occasionally lift the upper and lower eyelids and then rinse.
Due to the seriousness of the condition, the patient should seek medical help.
If swallowed, potassium carbonate irritates the gastrointestinal tract, causing burns to the lips, tongue, mouth, esophagus, or even stomach. This can cause vomiting and nausea, severe abdominal pain, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing due to swelling of the glottis or a fall due to severe hypotension.
If swallowed, rinse mouth with plenty of water or milk.
Unless he is vomiting, having a seizure or fainting. In this case, immediate medical help is needed to perform an endoscopy to determine the extent of burns in the esophagus and stomach and provide appropriate medical care.
Patients who inhale large amounts of potassium carbonate may experience coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. This is caused by irritation of the respiratory tract and its mucous membranes.
In this case, patients should be transferred to fresh air.
Do not use mouth-to-mouth resuscitation if the victim swallows or inhales the substance. Induce artificial respiration with a pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other suitable respiratory medical equipment.
The prognosis depends a lot on the amount of potassium carbonate, the time of exposure and the speed of first aid. Obviously, the longer you are exposed to higher concentrations of this chemical, the more dangerous and extensive the damage can be and the longer it will take to recover. In cases of high sodium carbonate intake, gastrointestinal damage may persist for several weeks after ingestion.
Operators should be aware of the hazards associated with handling this chemical and use appropriate personal protective equipment. Because it is a very fine powder, air conditioning is essential to keep the surface under control in the air. In addition, the operator should wear a lab coat, goggles, and gloves when using carbon dioxide to prevent direct contact with skin and eyes and to prevent inhalation. In cases of high leakage, it may be necessary to clean the entire garment and independent breathing apparatus.
Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medicine:
Kidney disease, Addison’s disease, gastric ulcer or intestinal obstruction and chronic diarrhea (colitis).
If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use potassium bicarbonate, or you may need special dose adjustments or tests during treatment.
This medicine may be harmful to the newborn. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether potassium bicarbonate is excreted in breast milk or if it could harm an infant. Do not use this medicine if you are breast-feeding without consulting your doctor.