If you eat fiberglass insulation or material, you may experience immediate pain and irritation in your mouth, throat, and stomach. Tiny glass shards can harm these sensitive areas. While most fiberglass fibers are small enough that they may not cause serious internal damage, ingesting this material is still incredibly hazardous and should be avoided at all costs.
As someone who has worked with fiberglass for several years, I have seen people having several issues due to fiberglass consumption by mistake.
So, I can tell you what will happen to you if you ate fiberglass, based on experience.
Potential Health Issues
When fiberglass is swallowed, larger fibers may become trapped in the upper airway, while smaller fibers can be inhaled deep into the lungs.
This can lead to temporary stomach irritation and respiratory issues. Inhaling fiberglass is particularly dangerous because the tiny fibers tend to embed themselves in lung tissue and are difficult or impossible to remove.
Eating fiberglass insulation may also result in:
- Cuts and abrasions in the mouth and throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Intestinal blockage (in severe cases)
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What to Do If You Ingest Fiberglass
If you or someone you know has ingested fiberglass insulation, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately.
Do not induce vomiting, as this can cause further damage to the throat and esophagus.
Instead, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and contact your local poison control center or emergency services for guidance.
Preventing Fiberglass Ingestion
To prevent accidental ingestion of fiberglass insulation, follow these safety tips:
- Keep fiberglass materials out of reach of children and pets
- Wear protective gear, such as gloves and a face mask, when handling fiberglass insulation
- Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking while working with fiberglass
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling fiberglass materials
- Properly dispose of any fiberglass waste to prevent contamination
The Bottom Line
Eating fiberglass insulation is incredibly dangerous and can lead to a range of health problems.
If ingestion occurs, seek medical attention right away.
By taking proper safety precautions and keeping fiberglass materials out of reach, you can help prevent accidental ingestion and protect your health.
