Calcium Hydroxide Side Effects

Calcium hydroxide, also called lime milk or slaked lime, is a compound typically found in industrial products, such as solvents, cement or cleaning agents 1. Ingesting, inhaling or touching toxic substances that contain calcium hydroxide may cause severe side effects 1. Seek prompt medical care if you develop any of the side effects associated with calcium hydroxide poisoning 1.

Upset Stomach

Ingesting calcium hydroxide may cause significant damage or irritation along your gastrointestinal tract 1. You may experience side effects of nausea, vomiting or severe abdominal pain. Ingesting calcium hydroxide may cause burns along the inside of your digestive tract 1. Intestinal damage may also result in internal bleeding, which may cause you to excrete bloody stools or vomit small amounts of blood. These side effects of calcium hydroxide poisoning require emergency medical attention to avoid additional, life-threatening complications 1.

Breathing Difficulties

Respiratory tract irritation caused by inhaling substances containing calcium hydroxide may lead to breathing difficulties, MedlinePlus reports 1. Your throat may begin to swell, making it more difficult for oxygen to reach your lungs. Severe breathing problems may also result in a sudden decrease in your blood pressure, which may lead to fainting.

Eye, Nose or Throat Irritation

Calcium hydroxide fumes may irritate your eyes, nose or throat 1. Eye irritation may cause blurred vision or temporary vision loss. You may also develop a painful burning sensation in your eyes, nose, mouth or throat, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns. Eye or nose irritation may cause you to frequently rub or scratch these regions of your body, while throat irritation may cause you to cough or repeatedly clear your throat.

Skin Rash or Burn

Skin exposure to calcium hydroxide may cause skin-related side effects 1. You may develop painful burns or skin lesions across skin regions that come in contact with this toxic substance. Severe skin damage may lead to the death of your skin cells, a side effect called necrosis. If skin necrosis occurs, you may develop open skin lesions or holes that expose tissue beneath your skin. Consult a medical professional as soon as possible if any of these side effects occur after you come in contact with calcium hydroxide 1.