What chemical can cause temporary blindness?

Methyl alcohol (also known as methanol or wood alcohol) is a chemical that can cause temporary blindness if ingested or inhaled in large amounts. It is a clear, colorless liquid with a slightly sweet odor. Methanol is used as a solvent in many products, including paints, varnishes, shellacs, and cleaning fluids. It is also used as a fuel in some types of stoves and camping equipment.

Symptoms of methanol poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, confusion, and blurred vision. In severe cases, methanol poisoning can cause permanent blindness, coma, and death.

Treatment for methanol poisoning involves flushing the stomach and giving the person oxygen and fluids. In some cases, an antidote called fomepizole may be given to prevent or reverse the effects of methanol poisoning.

Methanol poisoning is a serious medical condition that requires immediate treatment. If you think you or someone else may have been exposed to methanol, call 911 immediately.