Fluoride Poisoning

Fluoride is a salt of hydrofluoric acid that prevents tooth decay. It is one of the prominent chemical components found in water and toothpaste to protect teeth from decaying. Apart from these, fluoride is also found in other products like vitamins, certain dietary supplements, glass-etching or chrome-cleaning agents and insecticides. When fluoride is accidentally ingested in large amounts, it results in fluoride toxicity or poisoning. Let us take a look at the causes of it in detail.

What Causes Poisoning of Fluoride
As mentioned above, fluoride toxicity occurs only when a person ingests fluoride in any form. As it is found in many household products, there are chances of people accidentally ingesting this chemical. If 1-10 grams of fluoride is ingested in the body in a short duration, a person can suffer from life-threatening conditions. Even a small dose of 2 g of fluoride in adults can be lethal, while in case of children 15-16 mg/kg is sufficient to cause death. Fluoride poisoning in children mostly occurs due to accidental ingestion of toothpaste or insecticides. Here it is essential to note that a small amount of toothpaste (required for brushing) does not lead to toxicity. It is only the larger amounts in short period of time that cause poisoning. Apart from that, fluoride is also released as a result of certain industrial processes and is considered as one of the chief industrial pollutants. Inhalation of this toxic smoke can also lead to poisoning and toxicity. On the other hand, fluoride coming in contact with skin or the eyes can even lead to discomfort and itching. Let us take a look at the symptoms of this condition.

Signs and Symptoms
Fluoride toxicity is found to have an adverse effect on the cardiovascular system as well as gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The following are the symptoms of fluoride toxicity or poisoning.

• Hypercalcemia
• Hypoglycemia
• Arrhythmia
• Abdominal pain
• Cardiac arrest
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Seizures
• Tremors
• Nausea
• Muscle weakness and spasms
• Shock

The symptoms observed depend on the amount of fluoride ingested or inhaled and the time taken for the same. It should be noted that this is not an exhaustive list. Severe poisoning can lead to seizures, cardiac failure, multi organ failure, respiratory paralysis and consequently death.

Fluoride Poisoning Treatment
Fluoride toxicity or poisoning is an emergency condition and should be treated immediately. Therefore, if a person experiences any of the above mentioned symptoms on ingestion of fluorides, he/she should call the emergency service immediately. Cardiac monitoring is essential to treat arrhythmia. Intravenous fluids (IV) may be required to treat dehydration caused by diarrhea and vomiting. Secondly, calcium chloride IV may even be used to treat calcium deficiency. Poisoning caused due to fluoride can be treated with the help of several medications and electrolytes depending on the nature and severity of the condition. Treatment is even required for normal functioning of the heart.

As a preventive measure, one should remember to stay away from industrial pollutants as much as possible. Secondly, awareness should be created about the use of right toothpastes among children and adults. Lastly, it is advised for parents to keep insecticides away from children.