Question
What if a child eats desiccant? The child picked up the desiccant and accidentally ate a pill. They’re not sure if they ate it or not. Could there be any problems?
Answer
There are generally two types of common desiccants, which can be identified by their composition: one is calcium oxide desiccant, a white blocky substance that turns into powder when immersed in water; the other is silica gel desiccant, which is colorless and semi-transparent in the form of small beads. If calcium oxide desiccant is ingested, immediately give the baby water or milk. If silica gel desiccant is ingested, parents do not need to worry too much, as it is another commonly used desiccant that cannot be digested in the gastrointestinal tract and can be excreted out of the body through feces. No special treatment is needed after ingestion, unless the baby exhibits symptoms like dizziness or vomiting. In general, medical attention is not required.