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What Happens If One Swallows Fabric Softener Accidentally?

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Posted on Tue, 17 Mar 2015
Question: I accidentally took a sip of fabric softener thinking it was lemon water. Am I in danger?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Rakesh Madhyastha (1 minute later)
Hello. Thanks for the query. It depends on the ingredients of it. Please approach the Emergency room immediately. regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Follow up: Dr. Rakesh Madhyastha (1 minute later)
I accidentally took a sip of fabric softener thinking it was lemon water. Am I in danger?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Rakesh Madhyastha (15 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Follow up

Detailed Answer:
Hello

I am sorry for the delay in my response, there was an emergency at my hospital which I had to address to.
I see that my colleague Dr Chobuofo has addressd your query. It has been 14 hours since your consumption.
Do you have any of the following
1.Difficulty in swallowing food or liquids
2. Have you passed stools and urine?
3. Any burning in the throat or pain abdomen.?

These are the danger signs of caustic substance consumption. I am once again extremely sorry for the delay

Please get back to me if you have any further queries

Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Rakesh Madhyastha (5 hours later)
No difficulty swallowing, I've passed stools and urine, and no throat burning or abdomen pain. Are there any longer term issues to be concerned about? Thanks for your reply -
doctor
Answered by Dr. Rakesh Madhyastha (25 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
follow up

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Thanks for getting back

Long term side effects depends on the contents of the softener and also the amount.
We are most worried about stricture ( closing up) of the food pipe and also gastric erosion, however since you do not have any complaints I don't expect any long term issues

Regards
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Rakesh Madhyastha

Nephrologist

Practicing since :2009

Answered : 4364 Questions

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What Happens If One Swallows Fabric Softener Accidentally?

Hello. Thanks for the query. It depends on the ingredients of it. Please approach the Emergency room immediately. regards