Can glow sticks make you sick?

Yes, glow sticks can potentially make you sick if the liquid inside them is ingested or comes into contact with your eyes. The liquid inside glow sticks contains chemicals such as dibutyl phthalate (DBP), which is known to be harmful if ingested or absorbed through the skin. Symptoms of DBP poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches. In severe cases, DBP poisoning can cause kidney damage and other health problems.

If you accidentally swallow glow stick liquid, it's important to seek medical attention immediately. Do not induce vomiting, as this could cause the liquid to enter your lungs. If the liquid comes into contact with your eyes, flush them with water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention.

To avoid the risk of getting sick from glow sticks, it's important to keep them out of reach of children and pets, and to dispose of them properly.