What Happens if a Baby Eats Deodorant?
Deodorant is an essential personal care item designed to help us stay fresh and prevent body odor, but it’s not something we would usually think of babies consuming. Unfortunately, as odd as it might sound, there have been cases of babies and young children becoming ill after accidentally ingesting deodorant.
What are the Potential Side Effects of Eating Deodorant?
Ingesting large amounts of deodorant can be very dangerous, causing a variety of side effects, including:
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- Stomach pain
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- Vomiting
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- Diarrhea
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- Trouble breathing
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- Swelling of the lips and tongue
If a baby has ingested a small amount of deodorant, then they may not exhibit any symptoms at all. If a baby has consumed too much deodorant, then it is important to seek medical attention immediately as more severe symptoms may develop and can cause:
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- Convulsions and loss of consciousness
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- Breathing difficulties
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- Lung and brain damage
Are Deodorants Toxic?
Although deodorants are not intended to be consumed, most contain ingredients which are generally regarded as safe if used as instructed, meaning small accidental ingestion is unlikely to cause any harm.
Deodorants may contain allergenic ingredients, such as fragrances, so it’s important to read all product labels carefully to make sure they are suitable for the baby.
What Should I Do if My Baby Eats Deodorant?
If you believe your baby has consumed a small amount of deodorant, then there is no cause for alarm. If your baby has eaten large amounts of deodorant, or is exhibiting severe symptoms, then seek medical attention immediately.
In any situation where your baby has eaten deodorant, it is important to contact the Poison Control Center in your country to get advice. In the USA, you can contact them by calling 1-800-222-1222.