the Risks of Alcohol Disinfectants and Spa Water Ingestion

Q: the Risks of Alcohol Disinfectants and Spa Water Ingestion

Hello： In response to your question, harmful substances enter the human body primarily through three routes： the skin, the digestive tract, and the respiratory tract. <br><br>1. <br>There are various types and sources of alcohol. <br>Fermentation combined with distillation can pr

Disinfectant alcohol

Hello, I would like to ask a few questions:
1.
When entering a public place, the staff sprayed my hands with disinfectant alcohol, and then I touched food with my hands.
If this disinfectant alcohol is ingested, could it cause any problems in the body?
2.
Two days ago, while soaking in a hot spring, I accidentally ingested a little hot spring water.
Could this cause any problems?
3.
If non-consumable liquids enter the body, will they all be excreted? If they have already caused harm to the body, what symptoms might occur?

Xiao Ma, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/02/08

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine

Hello: In response to your question, harmful substances enter the human body primarily through three routes: the skin, the digestive tract, and the respiratory tract.

1.
There are various types and sources of alcohol.
Fermentation combined with distillation can produce aromatic alcoholic beverages, while the hydration of ethylene can synthesize industrial alcohol.
Additionally, the presence of methanol is used to distinguish and prevent the production of illicit alcohol.
The uses of alcohol include disinfectant alcohol, medicinal alcohol, and anhydrous alcohol, among others.
Therefore, to determine toxicity, it is essential to clarify the composition and manufacturing source and process of the alcohol.
If it is merely a mixture of ethanol and water, the human body can generally metabolize it through oxidation.
2.
Similarly, there are many types of hot springs, commonly including sulfur springs, iron springs, hydrogen sulfide springs, simple springs, saline springs, carbonated springs, and radioactive springs, among others; their compositions can be quite complex.
Generally, drinking from these springs is not recommended, but accidentally ingesting a small amount within the body's tolerance should not pose significant harm.
3.
The liver, kidneys, and other organs in the human body have different metabolic and excretory functions.
If the intake exceeds their detoxification capacity and dosage, problems may arise.
Different toxins can produce symptoms in various organ systems.
For example, methanol (a common component in counterfeit alcohol) poisoning can lead to symptoms such as blurred vision, confusion, delirium, cyanosis, and liver and kidney failure.
Your question involves not only medical discussions but also many aspects of physics and chemistry.
Therefore, I can only provide a brief overview of limited knowledge as a reference.

Reply Date: 2010/02/08

More Info

When it comes to the use of alcohol disinfectants and the ingestion of spa water, there are several important considerations regarding health and safety. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Ingestion of Alcohol Disinfectant: If a person has their hands sprayed with a disinfectant containing alcohol (typically 60-75% ethanol or isopropyl alcohol) and then eats without allowing the alcohol to evaporate, there is a potential risk of ingesting a small amount of alcohol. While small amounts of alcohol may not cause significant harm, it can lead to alcohol poisoning if consumed in larger quantities. Symptoms of alcohol poisoning can include confusion, vomiting, seizures, slow or irregular breathing, and hypothermia. In general, if the amount ingested is minimal, the body can metabolize it without serious issues. However, it is always advisable to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after using alcohol-based disinfectants before eating or touching the face.

2. Ingestion of Spa Water: Drinking a small amount of spa water, particularly if it is treated and safe for bathing, is usually not harmful. However, spa water can contain various minerals, bacteria, and other contaminants, depending on its source. If the water is not properly treated or if it contains harmful pathogens, there could be a risk of gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea or nausea. If you experience any symptoms after ingesting spa water, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. In general, it is best to avoid drinking water from hot springs or spas unless it is specifically labeled as safe for consumption.

3. Excretion of Harmful Liquids: The human body has a remarkable ability to detoxify and excrete many substances. However, not all ingested harmful liquids will be expelled without consequence. The body can metabolize and eliminate many substances through urine, feces, and sweat, but some substances can cause damage before they are fully excreted. For example, heavy metals, certain chemicals, and high concentrations of alcohol can lead to toxicity. Symptoms of toxicity can vary widely depending on the substance ingested but may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, confusion, and in severe cases, organ failure. If you suspect that you have ingested a harmful substance, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

In summary, while the occasional ingestion of small amounts of alcohol disinfectant or spa water may not lead to serious health issues, it is essential to practice caution. Always wash your hands thoroughly after using disinfectants and avoid consuming water from sources that are not explicitly safe for drinking. If you experience any adverse symptoms after ingestion, do not hesitate to contact a healthcare professional for advice and treatment.

Similar Q&A

Understanding the Risks of Alcohol Disinfectants and Spa Water Ingestion

Dr. Lai Hexian reply Family Medicine
1. Upon entering a public place, the staff first sprayed my hands with disinfectant alcohol, and then I touched food with my hands. If this disinfectant alcohol were to be ingested, would it cause any problems? ANSWER: If it is pure alcohol, it should have already evaporated. 2....

Concerns About Alcohol Disinfection in Shared Water Dispensers

Hello, Doctor: I currently share a water dispenser with other residents on the same floor. I used 75% alcohol, classified as a type B disinfectant, to spray for disinfection. However, I later realized that my alcohol spray nozzle produced a heavier mist, and I may have used too m...

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: If 75% alcohol is accidentally ingested, the primary concern is alcohol poisoning, especially in children. The general recommendation is to drink a large amount of water. However, unless a significant amount was sprayed during disinfection, ingesting a small amount should ...

Risks of Using Industrial Alcohol on Wounds: A Parent's Concern

Hello: Recently (on July 19), my 10-year-old son sustained a forehead abrasion that removed a layer of skin. I used 10 c.c of medicinal alcohol (95%) diluted with water to make 100 c.c for cleaning the wound. On the evening of July 22, my husband mentioned that it might be indust...

Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
The active ingredient in rubbing alcohol is ethanol, which is typically diluted with water in a 1:3 ratio for disinfection purposes. Rubbing alcohol can be purchased at pharmacies. For general wound disinfection, povidone-iodine solution or saline can be used. Industrial alcohol ...

Hand Hygiene and Disease Risks: Alcohol Disinfection in Public Spaces

Hi Doctor, if I touch products in a public place without washing my hands but use 75% alcohol to sanitize my hands before eating, what diseases could I potentially be at risk of contracting? Thank you. The recent virus outbreak has been quite concerning. Additionally, which medic...

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine
It is recommended that you wash your hands frequently.