Helium

1. If inhaled, move any exposed person to fresh air. Observe for any dizziness, headache, nausea, or changes in behavior.
2. If on the skin, rinse any exposed skin with lukewarm water.
3. Call 1-800-222-1222 for additional instructions.

If someone gets helium vapor into the eye, there can be immediate burning and stinging of the eyes and eyelids. This kind of exposure requires prompt first aid to avoid injury to the eye(s). If an exposure occurs:

1. Start rinsing eye(s) with lukewarm water.
2. Call the Missouri Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for further recommendations.

Quick Facts About Helium

Many people think of inhaling helium as a fun party trick, but few realize there are serious risks. Helium is often inhaled from a balloon because it causes a silly, temporary high-pitched voice change. Helium’s low density allows sound waves to travel through it more quickly than air, resulting in a high-pitched voice.

But inhaling helium from balloons is not always safe, and deaths have occurred. Helium is a simple asphyxiant, and when inhaled, it can replace oxygen in your bloodstream. Small amounts of inhaled helium can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Large amounts may cause confusion, a fast heart rate, and rapid fainting or loss of consciousness, which can result in falls, head injuries, and even death.

The amount of helium in a small party balloon is unlikely to cause serious harm to a teenager or adult if inhaled, but it may be dangerous to a young child. Inhaling helium directly from a tank is much more dangerous. Helium tanks for home use and professional use can release helium quickly and cause irreversible lung injury in seconds, which can be fatal. 

It may seem fun to inhale helium, but it is not worth the risk. Although most people experience only mild side effects, the chance of serious harm or even death is too risky for a joke. 

Skin Exposure

Getting the vapor on the skin feels extremely cold and may result in frostbite if left unwashed. If skin exposure occurs, remove contaminated clothing and wash the exposed skin with soap and water for 10-15 minutes to minimize frostbite injury. If significant symptoms persist, a healthcare provider should examine the area. 

If you find someone has inhaled a small amount of helium, do not panic. Move them to fresh air and give them some water to drink. Call the Missouri Poison Center right away at 1-800-222-1222. The poison center is open all day, every day, for poisoning emergencies and questions.

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