Poisoning following the, consumption of motor vehicle antifreeze. Antifreeze is made up almost entirely of ethylene glycol, a clear, colorless, odorless liquid with a sweet taste. Antifreeze poisoning chiefly occurs when children accidentally drink antifreeze, which they sometimes consume in large amounts because it tastes sweet. Alcoholics also sometimes drink antifreeze as a substitute for ethanol, the intoxicating ingredient in liquor.
The majority of antifreeze products available in the UK contain ethylene glycol, a toxic substance. Instances of antifreeze poisoning, although exceedingly rare, typically arise from accidental ingestion.
Ingesting antifreeze initially induces symptoms resembling alcohol intoxication. However, it may subsequently lead to vomiting, stupor, seizures, and coma. Within a span of 24 to 36 hours, acute kidney failure can manifest as well.
If an individual is suspected of consuming antifreeze, prompt medical assistance is essential. While waiting for professional help to arrive, if feasible, providing small quantities of alcohol (preferably a spirit like brandy or whisky) is advisable. This is because alcohol slows down the body’s metabolism of antifreeze.
In a hospital setting, the treatment for antifreeze ingestion may involve procedures such as stomach pumping to eliminate the antifreeze from the stomach. Intravenous administration of diuretic drugs, alcohol, and bicarbonate is employed to address excessive acidity in the body fluids. In cases of kidney failure, haemodialysis may be necessary to extract ethylene glycol from the blood and provide treatment for the impaired kidney function.