How are acids and bases harmful?

How Are Acids & Bases Harmful?

People must take special precautions when handling acids and bases. Their chemical makeup can cause damages to the human body in several ways. They are useful in science as well as around the home, so misuse of acids and bases is plausible.

Skin Contact

Chemical burns happen when exposed tissue comes into contact with an acid or base. In most cases chemical burns are minor and only cause some skin irritation. Chemical burns must immediately be neutralized, then go to the doctor. An acid can be neutralized with a base and vice versa. The doctor will offer treatment and they will also be able to tell you whether there was any deep tissue damage.

Ingestion

Ingestion of an acid or base can cause the human body to change its pH level; if the body is not at normal pH level, the organs will not function properly which can result in organ failure and even death. Ingestion also causes immediate burns that are similar to skin contact in the mouth, throat, and stomach.

Inhaling

Strong solutions of acids and bases can cause respiratory distress and even organ failure. This can be exacerbated in those who have asthma.

Tissue Damage

Deep tissue damage can occur in addition to a chemical burn. It is important to get to the doctor after a chemical burn so they can tell you if there is such damage. Avoiding the doctor can result in extreme pain in infected muscle and muscle death.

Eye Damage

All solutions, such as pure ammonia, can cause eye damage. This includes burning of the exposed tissue, and can cause burning of interior tissue that can result in permit blindness.