Household bleach contains a compound called sodium hypochorite, usually diluted to 5.25 percent with water. it's also a component of several household cleaning products, including laundry soap and mildew remover. It's a corrosive chemical that burns skin and eyes on contact. Bleach also reacts with some other household chemicals, such as ammonia, to produce toxic gases.
Avoid Accidents
Store bleach in the original container so that the manufacturer's safety instructions are readily available. Keep bleach and other cleaning products away from children, in a high or locked cupboard. Educate yourself on the contents of household cleaning products by reading the labels. The most common cause of bleach in eyes and lungs is gas created by accidentally mixing a product containing bleach with another containing ammonia.
Bleach in Eyes
Bleach can affect your eyes in either liquid or gas form. Symptoms include a burning sensation and blurred vision. Get away from the source of the bleach and wash your eyes with clean, running water for at least 15 minutes. This is easier if someone can help you. Ensure that the water runs away from uncontaminated skin and clothing. If you wear contact lenses, remove them immediately and throw them away.
Bleach in Lungs
Inhaling the gases given off by bleach mixtures can affect your lungs. Symptoms may include coughing, shortness of breath and a burning sensation in your throat. Get to fresh air immediately, find some support to sit up, keep calm and call for medical assistance. Oxygen can help with breathing difficulties and cooling your airway. Doctors will observe your condition for at least two hours to check for fluid in your lungs.
General First Aid
A bleach spillage may affect your clothing and other areas of skin. Remove contaminated clothing before the liquid spreads to other parts of your body. Wash everywhere apart from your eyes with soap and cool water. If you have swallowed bleach don't try to vomit; the corrosive effects will be magnified by your stomach acid. Drink small amounts of water or milk, if you can do so without nausea, and seek medical help.
Long-term Effects
If you act swiftly to neutralize the effects of household bleach on either the eyes or lungs, long-term damage is unlikely. Higher concentrations of sodium hypochlorite from industrial products, or exposure that is left untreated, can lead to extensive tissue damage. Always call 911 immediately if you suspect contamination with a corrosive chemical.