T54.3: Toxic effect: Corrosive alkalis and alkali-like substances

There are different lyes. They differ in terms of their chemical components and the way they work. The lyes can get into the body in different ways. They can be inhaled, swallowed or absorbed via contact with the skin, for example. Depending on how the lye got into the body, there can be various symptoms. The nature of the symptoms also depends on which lye is involved.

For example the skin or mucous membranes may suffer chemical burns. Mucous membranes are moist membranes. They coat the mouth and the esophagus, for example. Chemical burns damage the tissue. If the tissue has been damaged, the affected area may be painful. The damage can cause tears or holes in the tissue. The person may also experience shortness of breath, vomiting or drooling.