When steel wool is ingested, the body’s natural digestive process attempts to break it down. However, due to its metallic and fibrous nature, steel wool does not digest easily.
Stomach acid, composed primarily of hydrochloric acid, can react with iron over time, but given the rapid transit time through the human digestive system (24 to 72 hours). So, most of the steel will pass through the digestive system without being absorbed.
More concerning effects of swallowing steel wool include irritation or inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, feeling of obstruction, or even laceration. In cases where the steel wool is stuck in the gut, endoscopic or surgical removal can come to the rescue. Make sure to consult your doctor for proper examination and treatment following the ingestion of steel wool.
What Is Steel Wool Made Of?
Steel wool, indeed, is made from low-carbon steel, which consists of iron and a carbon content typically within the range of 0.05% to 0.32% by weight.
This specific composition of carbon content makes the steel soft and flexible enough to be spun and woven into the fine, wool-like strands used for cleaning, polishing, and other household and industrial tasks.
A popular steel wool pad brand known as Brillo has soap infused within the pads to improve the cleaning power. The soap typically includes anionic surfactants, builders, fragrances, and dyes.
Health Risks Of Steel Wool Ingestion
Ingesting steel wool can introduce a range of health risks due to its physical structure and the materials involved. Here’s a closer look at each potential risk:
1. Irritation or Swelling
The fibers of steel wool are sharp and can irritate the sensitive lining of the pharynx, esophagus, and stomach. As the body attempts to move the steel wool through the digestive tract, these fibers can scratch or jab at the mucosal surfaces, leading to irritation.
This irritation can result in swelling or inflammation, which might cause discomfort, pain, difficulty swallowing, or a feeling of something being stuck in the throat.
2. Cuts or Laceration
While steel wool is indeed malleable, it consists of many fine, sharp wires that can potentially cause cuts to the digestive tract.
Although such occurrences might be rare, it more likely to occur if larger amounts are swallowed. Ingesting thicker steel wool also increases the risk of gastrointestinal injuries.
3. Obstruction
Larger pieces of steel wool can pose a significant risk of obstruction of the digestive tract. An obstruction can occur if the steel wool tangles or clumps together, creating a blockage that prevents the passage of food and fluids.
This situation is a medical emergency, as it can lead to severe pain, vomiting, and even perforation of the intestines if not treated promptly.
4. Toxicity
The risk of toxicity from ingesting steel wool comes from two main sources: iron and any chemicals it might be coated with.
Elemental iron in steel wool can react with stomach acid to form ferric acid which can be converted to the absorbable ferrous state. However, bioavailability will be very low and iron poisoning is very unlikely. Besides, the amount consumed in accidental ingestion is often small.
Steel wool pads are often treated with oils or chemicals to prevent rusting and improve cleaning efficacy. When ingested, these substances can be toxic, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, poisoning.
What To Do If You Have Swallowed Steel Wool?
If the steel wool is stuck in your throat or stomach and is causing discomfort, quickly call your doctor or go to the nearest ER, and don’t take any food or water in an attempt to flush it down your esophagus.
Upon reaching the hospital or medical facility, a healthcare provider will likely perform a physical examination and ask about the incident. They may order imaging tests, such as an X-ray, to locate the steel wool and assess its size and potential impact.
If the steel wool is lodged in the esophagus or stomach, a doctor might use an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera) to find and remove it.
In rare cases, if the steel wool has caused significant damage or obstruction, surgical intervention might be necessary to remove it and repair any injuries.
If the piece of steel wool is small and not causing immediate harm, doctors might opt to monitor the situation closely, using repeated imaging tests to ensure the material passes through the digestive system safely.
Depending on the situation, medication may be prescribed to manage pain, prevent infection, or treat any symptoms related to the ingestion.
Prevention Tips and Alternatives
After such an incident, it’s important to consider preventive measures to avoid similar occurrences in the future.
Keeping steel wool and other potentially harmful objects out of reach of children and educating everyone in the household about the dangers of ingesting non-food items are effective strategies.
When looking for safer alternatives to steel wool for cleaning and scrubbing tasks, it’s important to consider options that maintain effectiveness without posing risks of injury or ingestion. Here are several safe and effective alternatives:
Galvanized Steel Scouring Pad: Often thicker than steel wool and less likely to fray or be ingested.
Non-Scratch Scouring Pads: abrasive made from polyester, safe for dishes and countertops.
Baking Soda and Vinegar: Gentle abrasive for cleaning tough stains.
Natural Fiber Scrub Pads: Eco-friendly option for scrubbing
