What are the side effects of drinking water purified by bleach?

Bleach is a powerful chemical disinfectant that is used to kill bacteria and other microorganisms. While bleach is generally safe to use in small amounts, drinking water that has been purified with bleach can have several side effects, including:

1. Gastrointestinal side effects: Bleach can cause irritation to the digestive system, which can lead to stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, bleach can also cause internal bleeding and damage to the gastrointestinal tract.

2. Eye irritation: Bleach can cause severe irritation to the eyes, including pain, redness, swelling, and watery eyes. Corneal damage and vision problems can also occur if bleach is splashed into the eyes.

3. Skin irritation: Bleach can cause skin irritation, including dryness, itching, redness, and blistering. In severe cases, bleach can also cause chemical burns.

4. Respiratory side effects: Bleach fumes can cause irritation to the nose, throat, and lungs, which can lead to coughing, sneezing, shortness of breath, and wheezing. In severe cases, bleach fumes can also cause chemical pneumonia.

5. Long-term side effects: Studies have suggested that long-term exposure to bleach may increase the risk of certain health problems, such as cancer, reproductive problems, and nervous system disorders. However, more research is needed to confirm these potential long-term side effects.

Overall, drinking water that has been purified with bleach can have several side effects, some of which can be severe. It is important to use bleach only according to the instructions on the product label and to avoid drinking water that has been treated with bleach unless it has been properly diluted and purified according to safety standards.