Petroleum jelly is a semisolid mixture of fat-based substances made from petroleum. This article discusses what happens when someone swallows a lot of petroleum jelly.

Poisonous ingredient - Petroleum jelly (Petrolatum)

Where Found

• Some skin care products (including Vaseline)
• Some eye lubricant ointments

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain
• Coughing
• Diarrhea
• Irritation of eyes, nose, throat, and skin
• Shortness of breath

Home Care

Stop using the product.

DO NOT make the person throw up unless told to do so by Poison Control. Inhaling the substance during vomiting can lead to severe problems.

If the product is in the eyes, flush with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• Patient’s age, weight, and condition
• Name of product (as well as the ingredients and strength if known)
• Time it was swallowed
• Amount swallowed

So , even the most common skin care product can be harmful if used without caution. Eyelastin and a couple of other products have been found to be the safest around the eyes.