Health Encyclopedia

Paraffin poisoning

Definition

Paraffin is a solid waxy substance used to make candles and other items. This article discusses what may occur if you swallow or eat paraffin.

Alternative Names

Wax poisoning - paraffin

Poisonous Ingredient

Paraffin

Where Found

Some arthritis bath/spa treatments
Some candles
Some waxes

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

Eating a lot of paraffin can cause intestinal obstruction.

Home Treatment

Do not make the person throw up. Contact Poison Control for guidance.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

The patient's age, weight, and condition
Name of product (as well as the ingredients and strength, if known)
The time it was swallowed
The amount swallowed

Poison Control, or a local emergency number

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.

See: Poison control center - emergency number

What to expect at the emergency room

Symptoms will be treated if the person is instructed to go to the emergency room.

Expectations (prognosis)

Paraffin is generally nontoxic (not harmful) if swallowed in small amounts. Recovery is likely.

References

Ford MD. Clinical Toxicology. 1st ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2001.

Review Date:10/24/2007
Reviewed By:Stephen C Acosta, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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