[Swallowing and suffocating: respiratory consequences of chlorine and hydrocarbons]

Several toxic substances, inhaled or swallowed, can cause similar respiratory symptoms. We present two young patients with respiratory symptoms, one after inhaling chlorine gas and the other after ingesting lamp oil. Pathophysiology and clinical effects of these two substances differ. No specific antidotes exist for most toxic substances. Inhalation of respiratory irritants, such as chlorine gas, can lead to wheezing or bronchial obstruction, which can generally be handled by the family physician. In mild cases, administration of a bronchodilator is sufficient. Hydrocarbons such as lamp oil, however, can cause severe respiratory problems which develop over days, even when only small amounts are ingested. Hospitalization is therefore warranted in these cases, even when initial symptoms appear to be mild.