How chemical poisons enter the human body

The Ways Poisons Enter the Human Body

Toxins can enter the human body through several pathways, including the respiratory system (inhalation), the digestive system (ingestion), and the skin (absorption). Other routes such as subcutaneous, intramuscular, or intravenous injection, and contact with mucous membranes are also possible. Among these, intravenous injection is the fastest way for a poison to enter the bloodstream, followed by inhalation, oral ingestion, and skin absorption. In industrial settings, the most common and dangerous route of exposure is through the respiratory system, followed by the skin, while other routes like the digestive tract or mucous membranes are less frequent.

1. Inhalation Through the Respiratory Tract

The respiratory system is the most common and dangerous route for toxins to enter the body. During production processes, toxic substances may exist in various forms—such as gases, vapors, fumes, mist, or dust—and can be easily inhaled into the lungs.

The ability of a toxin to reach the alveoli depends on its particle size and solubility in water. Gases, vapors, and fine particles (less than 3 microns) can easily reach the deep parts of the lungs. However, larger particles, such as droplets or dust over 5 microns, tend to be trapped in the nasal passages or upper airways, where they dissolve in mucus and rarely reach the alveoli. Still, under certain conditions, some of these particles may make their way deeper into the lungs. Once in the alveoli, water-soluble toxins are absorbed more quickly, as well as smaller particles that dissolve easily.

When toxins are absorbed through the alveoli, they enter the bloodstream directly without passing through the liver first, leading to widespread toxicity. This makes inhalation particularly dangerous.

2. Absorption Through the Skin

The skin serves as a barrier against toxins, but it can still absorb harmful substances through two main routes: through the epidermis and through hair follicles or sweat glands.

The outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, contains a lipid-rich membrane that blocks non-fat-soluble substances. However, fat-soluble compounds can pass through this barrier if they also have some water solubility. Another route involves bypassing the epidermal barrier entirely, allowing toxins to enter the bloodstream through hair follicles and sebaceous glands.

Some toxins can enter through both the epidermis and hair follicles simultaneously. The rate and amount of absorption depend on factors such as the chemical’s solubility, concentration, surface area of skin exposed, and environmental conditions like temperature and humidity.

Once absorbed through the skin, toxins do not go through the liver first; instead, they are distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream.

3. Ingestion Through the Digestive Tract
While less common, toxins can still enter the body through the digestive system. This often occurs due to poor hygiene practices, such as eating or drinking in contaminated environments. Sometimes, toxins inhaled through the nose or mouth may settle in the throat and be accidentally swallowed.

Once in the digestive tract, most toxins are expelled through feces. A small portion may be absorbed in the small intestine, processed by the liver, and then excreted. Only a minimal amount enters the bloodstream, making this route generally less dangerous compared to others.

Copyright Notice: This article is reproduced from online media and represents only the author's opinion. It has nothing to do with this site. If news articles or comments infringe your legal rights, please call us and we will handle it in a timely manner.