How Do You Treat Clorox Fume Exposure?

If exposure to Clorox fumes leads to symptoms of poisoning, immediately move the affected person to an area with fresh air, according to MedlinePlus. If the chemical is on the victim’s skin or in his eyes, flush the affected area with water for 15 minutes. Do not make the victim throw up. If the poison was swallowed, immediately administer water or milk to the victim.

Clorox contains the poisonous ingredient of sodium hypochlorite, which is also included in the chemicals used to add chlorine to swimming pools, disinfectants, household cleaners and water purifiers, according to MedlinePlus. Clorox and other bleaches should never be mixed with ammonia. The interaction between the two cleaners creates a gas poisonous with fumes that cause breathing problems and choking. Symptoms of sodium hypochlorite poisoning include coughing, burning red eyes, gagging and pain in the mouth, throat and esophagus.

Victims may also experience chest pains, low blood pressure, slow heartbeat and shock. Victims who swallow the substance experience vomiting and stomach pain. If exposed to the skin, sodium hypochlorite causes burns and blistering. In severe cases, the victim may suffer from delirium or go into a coma. Diluted sodium hypochlorite generally causes only minor stomach upset if swallowed, notes MedlinePlus.