When nail glue, a strong adhesive, is accidentally swallowed, immediate action is required. The substance is essentially super glue, and its primary danger is its rapid physical reaction with moist body tissues, not chemical toxicity. While this exposure is serious, remain calm and focus on mitigating the physical damage caused by the glue’s speed of reaction inside the mouth and throat.
The Chemistry Behind Nail Glue Adhesion
Nail glue’s powerful bonding capability comes from its main ingredient, a chemical known as cyanoacrylate, typically ethyl cyanoacrylate. This substance is a monomer, a small molecule that exists as a liquid until it encounters specific conditions that trigger a chemical change. The adhesion process, called polymerization, is initiated by the presence of moisture or a slightly alkaline environment.
The danger of ingesting this glue stems from the fact that human mucous membranes, which line the mouth and throat, are moist and contain the necessary elements to trigger this rapid reaction. Upon contact with saliva, the liquid cyanoacrylate quickly solidifies, or “cures,” into a hard plastic polymer. This quick transformation means the glue adheres almost instantly to any tissue it touches, potentially causing a physical obstruction or irritation.
Immediate Physical Effects and Symptoms
The most immediate physical effect of swallowing nail glue occurs in the oral cavity and upper throat. The rapid polymerization process can cause the glue to bond to the tongue, cheeks, or roof of the mouth, leading to the sensation of a foreign, hardened object. This rapid setting can result in irritation or a burning sensation on the sensitive mucous membranes as the chemical reaction generates a small amount of heat.
If the glue is swallowed before it fully solidifies, the resulting solid mass may pose a physical hazard. There is a risk of the glue adhering to the esophagus or, more critically, the back of the throat near the airway, creating a potential choking risk or difficulty breathing. Even if the solid piece travels down the digestive tract, it may cause minor stomach upset. However, because the glue converts rapidly into an inert solid, significant chemical poisoning is unlikely.
Essential First Aid and Immediate Action
The first step is to immediately contact a poison control center or emergency medical services for specific guidance. While waiting for professional advice, prioritize preventing further adhesion and removing excess glue. Thoroughly rinse the mouth with plain water, taking care not to swallow the rinse water, which may contain unpolymerized glue.
Attempting to separate any glued-together tissues, such as the lips, should be avoided, as forcefully pulling them apart can tear the delicate skin. Instead, encourage saliva production, as the warm, moist environment naturally helps loosen the cured glue over time. Drinking small amounts of water or milk can help dilute any liquid glue and assist in detaching pieces bonded to soft tissues. Crucially, do not attempt to induce vomiting, as this could cause the hardened glue to become lodged in the throat.
Professional Medical Intervention and Monitoring
Following initial first aid, professional medical evaluation is necessary. Medical professionals will first assess the airway to ensure there is no obstruction, which is the most serious immediate concern. They may use a tongue depressor to check for any visible glue residue or tissue damage in the mouth and throat.
Even if symptoms appear mild, monitoring is required to check for delayed complications like esophageal irritation or damage. Doctors will watch for signs of gastrointestinal blockage if a significant amount was swallowed, though this is uncommon because the glue cures rapidly in the mouth. Medical staff can use specialized techniques, sometimes involving endoscopy, to safely remove any large pieces of glue or assess for damage to the digestive lining.