Toxicity: Risk for toxicity will vary based on the amount ingested. Minimal exposure in young children has a low risk for toxicity.
Expected symptoms: Minimal exposure typically results in an unpleasant taste and an upset stomach or diarrhea.
What to do: Wipe out the child’s mouth with a wet cloth or rinse the mouth. Give your child a drink of water to help get the taste out of the mouth. Contact the Missouri Poison Center immediately.
Quick Facts about Epsom salt:
Epsom salt is a chemical compound that is often used for detox baths or foot soaks. The substance may look like table salt, but it’s quite different. Unlike table salt, Epsom salt contains magnesium, and is also known as magnesium sulfate.
Epsom salt is generally safe when used as directed, but you should take precautions when using it around children. Side effects can happen if children ingest Epsom salt or drink Epsom salt water. If swallowed, Epsom salt can cause diarrhea, bloating, or an upset stomach.
If you notice that your child has ingested Epsom salt, it is important not to panic. Children may react strongly to the taste and may cough or gag. Take any remaining Epsom salt away from the child and wipe their mouth out with a soft wet cloth. You may give them some water to drink to get the taste out of their mouth. Do not try to induce vomiting.
After you have removed your child from the situation, immediately call the Missouri Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. Treatment recommendations are often determined by the amount ingested. The poison center is open all day, every day for poisoning emergencies and questions and our team of medical professionals will help to walk you through the next steps.