A pulmonologist recently highlighted the case of a woman who was rushed into the emergency department following loss of consciousness after mixing two toilet cleaners. “A patient landed in our emergency simply because she mixed two toilet cleaners to clean her bathroom. Toxic fumes filled the room. Within minutes, she became breathless and collapsed and was brought to the emergency,” recalled Dr Ankit Bhatia in a post on Instagram.
He added, “When you mix toilet cleaners, acids, and bleaches, they release toxic gases. These gases burn your airways, especially if you have allergies or asthma. One wrong combination can permanently injure your lungs. Use only one cleaner at a time.”
Is mixing two or more cleaners toxic to your body?
Dr Sulaiman Ladhani, consultant pulmonologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, said most toilet cleaners have strong chemicals like hydrochloric acid, bleach, ammonia, and oxidisers.” When two different cleaners mix, they can react quickly and release toxic gases. The most common is chlorine gas, which irritates the nose, throat, and lungs. Even a few breaths can cause coughing, difficulty breathing, and a sudden tightening of the airways,” said Dr Ladhani.
What happens inside the lungs when someone inhales these fumes?
Chlorine and similar gases can chemically burn the airway lining. According to Dr Ladhani, this injury leads to severe inflammation and may result in a condition called Reactive Airways Dysfunction Syndrome (RADS). “The airways become swollen and overly sensitive, which can cause a sudden tightening, similar to an asthma attack but often worse. In serious cases, fluid might leak into the lung tissue, oxygen levels can drop, and hospital care may be needed,” said Dr Ladhani.
What symptoms should people watch for immediately after exposure?
People may experience:
– Coughing or choking
– Tightness or heaviness in the chest
– Burning in the nose, throat, or eyes
– Difficulty breathing
– Watery eyes
– Dizziness or a metallic taste while breathing
If symptoms last more than 10 to 15 minutes or if difficulty breathing worsens, getting urgent medical help is essential, as these reactions can escalate quickly, Dr Ladhani said.
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Here’s what you should consider (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
What should someone do right after accidental exposure?
Dr Ladhani shared the following measures:
*Move to fresh air right away.
*Open windows and turn on exhaust fans; avoid going back into the bathroom until the fumes clear.
*Sip water to soothe the throat.
*Steer clear of steam inhalation or home remedies, as they might worsen airway inflammation.
*If breathing becomes noisy or complex, or if it continues for a few minutes, seek emergency care, said Dr Ladhani.
What to keep in mind?
*Use one cleaning product at a time.
*Never mix acid-based cleaners with bleach or ammonia.
*Make sure the bathroom is well-ventilated; even a small window helps.
*Store cleaners separately and always read labels.
*If you feel irritation while cleaning, stop immediately and step out.
Can one episode cause long-term lung damage?
Yes, asserted Dr Ladhani. “A single significant exposure can lead to a lingering cough, wheezing, and increased sensitivity in the airways lasting weeks to months. In rare but serious cases, it can result in permanent lung function reduction or chronic airway hyperreactivity.”
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
