Accidental Ingestion of Mohr's Salt Solution: Unusual Symptoms and Quick Recovery

Today, while using a pipette to extract a solution combining Mohr's salt and dilute sulfuric acid, I inadvertently took a small amount into my mouth. The experience was unusual and quite alarming. Here's what I experienced immediately after ingesting a fraction of the solution and the subsequent effects on my health.

Symptoms and Immediate Effects

Upon tasting the solution, which had a sour and acidic taste, I quickly realized it was not suitable for ingestion. I spat it out immediately and noticed an unusual change in my saliva. My saliva had become a dense foamy substance, indicating a chemical reaction with the solution. I immediately rinsed my mouth with cold fresh water, but a slight burning sensation persisted, causing discomfort. My teeth felt rough and gritty, suggesting that the enamel may have been affected by the acidic solution.

Quick Recovery Steps

After spitting out the solution, I addressed the symptoms with several quick recovery steps. First, I brushed my teeth with my regular toothpaste. This helped neutralize the acidic reaction and reduce the burning sensation in my mouth. The sour taste and roughness of my teeth gradually subsided, and within 15 minutes, I was back to normal.

What Happened?

So, what exactly were the chemical reactions that caused these unusual symptoms? Mohr's salt, also known as sodium tetraborate, is primarily composed of sodium tetraborate decahydrate (Na2B4O7·10H2O). When combined with dilute sulfuric acid, it forms a solution that can release hydrolysis products and potentially cause a pH change in the mouth.

When ingested, Mohr's salt in the presence of sulfuric acid can react to form boric acid, which is highly acidic. This can lead to a number of effects on the oral environment. The acidic conditions can cause a change in the composition of the saliva, leading to the formation of a dense foam due to the reaction with proteins and other organic compounds present in the mouth.

Immediate Safety Measures

While the experience was somewhat distressing at the time, it is important to emphasize that these effects are generally temporary and not permanent. If this happens to you, here are some steps to take:

Rinse your mouth thoroughly with cold, fresh water to help dilute the acid and any remaining solution.

Brush your teeth gently with toothpaste to neutralize any remaining acidic effects and restore the normal pH balance of your mouth.

Observe any lingering symptoms and seek medical advice if the symptoms persist or worsen.

Remember, Mohr's salt is usually not harmful when ingested in small amounts, especially if neutralized quickly. However, it is always best to handle these substances with caution and follow safety guidelines when working with them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it was a minor episode, the experience of ingesting Mohr's salt solution with dilute sulfuric acid provides a valuable lesson in the importance of safety when handling chemicals. It is important to understand the potential reactions and effects of such substances and to take appropriate precautions.