Fiberglass is a common material used in insulation, plastics, and textiles, made from fine fibers of glass. Accidental exposure often occurs during home renovation, cleanup, or from contaminated items. Ingesting this material presents a unique hazard because the digestive system is ill-equipped to handle the physical properties of glass fibers. Immediate and specific steps are required to mitigate the potential for internal physical damage. This article informs readers about the risks associated with accidental ingestion and the necessary response.
How Fiberglass Causes Internal Injury
Fiberglass causes injury through mechanical irritation rather than a chemical reaction. The material is glass spun into extremely thin, needle-like filaments. These structures possess sharp, jagged edges capable of causing abrasion and physical trauma to the delicate mucous membranes lining the digestive tract.
As the ingested fibers travel from the mouth down the throat and esophagus, they can scratch and embed themselves into the soft tissue. This mechanical action creates microscopic cuts and irritation along the upper gastrointestinal tract. The fibers do not dissolve in the stomach’s hydrochloric acid because they are made of silica-based glass.
The primary risk is the physical cutting and irritation of the internal lining as the material passes through the system. This abrasive action continues through the stomach and intestines, irritating the sensitive lining of the intestinal wall before the material is expelled.
Recognizing Symptoms of Ingestion
Symptoms of fiberglass ingestion often begin immediately due to the material’s abrasive nature contacting the sensitive tissues of the mouth and throat. A person may experience a sudden burning sensation or localized pain in the mouth, on the tongue, or in the back of the throat. This discomfort results from the sharp fibers embedding themselves into the oral and pharyngeal mucosa.
The irritation can lead to excessive drooling or difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia, as the esophageal lining becomes inflamed. Further down the digestive tract, a person may experience abdominal pain, cramping, or stomach discomfort. Nausea and vomiting are also possible, sometimes containing small streaks of blood indicating minor bleeding from the mucous membranes.
While temporary stomach irritation is common, persistent or severe symptoms require immediate attention. These symptoms include vomiting that does not stop, a significant amount of blood in vomit or stool, or severe chest pain indicating substantial esophageal injury. Any experience of severe, unrelenting pain necessitates immediate emergency medical evaluation.
Essential Steps for Medical Response
The most important immediate action following suspected fiberglass ingestion is to contact the national Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 for expert guidance. Do not attempt to induce vomiting under any circumstances. Inducing vomiting forces the sharp glass fibers back up the esophagus, which doubles the damage to the sensitive tissue and increases the risk of embedding or laceration.
If the person is conscious, able to swallow, and not experiencing severe distress, offer a small amount of fluid to help wash the fibers down and provide a soothing effect. Drinking small quantities of water or milk is recommended, as these liquids can help dilute the material and coat the irritated membranes. Avoid excessive amounts of fluid, which could potentially induce vomiting.
Seeking emergency care is necessary if the individual exhibits severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, signs of shock, or persistent vomiting or abdominal pain. These symptoms suggest a severe injury to the gastrointestinal tract requiring prompt medical intervention. Always bring the container or a sample of the ingested material to the hospital, if possible, to aid medical professionals in determining the exact nature of the exposure.
Medical management typically focuses on supportive care, monitoring the individual for signs of internal bleeding or obstruction, and ensuring the material passes naturally. The fibers are expected to exit the body through the feces. Medical follow-up may be required to confirm the resolution of symptoms and the complete passage of the material. Specialists may order diagnostic imaging in rare cases of severe symptoms to evaluate the extent of the damage to the lining.