Health Encyclopedia
Candles
Definition
This is poisoning from swallowing candle wax.
Poisonous Ingredient
- Wax
Where Found
- Various candles
Symptoms
Candle wax may cause intestinal blockage if a lot is swallowed.
Home Care
Call Poison Control for further guidance.
Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following information:
- The patient's age, weight, and condition
- The name of the product (ingredients and strengths, if known)
- The time it was swallowed
- The amount swallowed
Poison Control
The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.
This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the U.S. use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.
See National Poison Control center.
What to Expect at the Emergency Room
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:
- Treat the symptoms.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Recovery is very likely.
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
