Is Potassium Chloride Bad for You?
Potassium chloride (KCl) is a salt that the body requires in small amounts. Moderate amounts are considered hazardous, especially for those with kidney disease, but in small amounts it is safe to use in food.
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Ingestion
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Ingestion of potassium chloride can be deadly, but healthy people rarely ingest enough to cause problems. If a person ingests pure or concentrated potassium chloride, a poison control center should be contacted immediately.
Food Additive
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Potassium chloride may be added to processed foods in safe amounts. It is found in low-sodium salt and salt substitute, which should be consumed only in small amounts and only by healthy people.
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Skin Contact
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Potassium chloride is a slight irritant to skin. If significant irritation develops after exposure, the victim should seek medical treatment.
Eye Contact
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Potassium chloride is an eye irritant. In case of eye exposure, rinse the affected eye(s) with cool running water for 15 minutes, then seek medical attention.
Inhalation
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Inhaled potassium chloride dust can cause slight irritation to the lungs. Medical attention is needed if the victim shows any signs of respiratory symptoms.
Injection
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Potassium chloride is most dangerous when injected and can cause a deadly heart arrhythmia.
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