Health Encyclopedia

Chalk

Definition

Chalk is a form of limestone. Chalk poisoning occurs when someone accidentally or intentionally swallows chalk.

Poisonous Ingredient

Chalk is generally considered to be nonpoisonous, but it can cause problems if large amounts are swallowed.

Where Found

Billiard chalk (magnesium carbonate)
Blackboard and artist's chalk (gypsum)
Tailor's chalk (talc)

Note: This list may not include all uses of chalk.

Symptoms

Eye irritation
Gastrointestinal
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting

Home Treatment

Seek immediate medical help. Do NOT make a person throw up unless told to do so by poison control or a health care professional.

If the chemical is on the skin or in the eyes, flush with lots of water for at least 15 minutes.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

Patient's age, weight, and condition
Name of the product (ingredients and strengths, if known)
Time it was swallowed
Amount swallowed

Poison Control, or a local emergency number

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

See: Poison control center - emergency number

What to expect at the emergency room

The health care provider will measure and monitor your vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate.

Expectations (prognosis)

How well you do depends on the amount of chalk swallowed and how quickly treatment is received. The faster you get medical help, the better the chance for recovery.

Chalk is considered a fairly nonpoisonous substance, so recovery is likely.

Review Date:2/27/2008
Reviewed By:Stephen C. Acosta, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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