What can happen if you eat pumice?

Eating pumice can have serious health consequences. Pumice is a type of volcanic rock that is formed when lava cools and traps gas bubbles. These bubbles can make pumice very light and porous, which means it can easily break into sharp pieces. If these sharp pieces are swallowed, they can cause damage to the digestive tract, including the mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach, and intestines. In some cases, eating pumice can even lead to internal bleeding.

In addition to the physical damage that pumice can cause, it can also contain harmful chemicals, such as silica dust. Silica dust is a known respiratory irritant that can cause coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, silica dust exposure can lead to lung cancer and silicosis, a serious lung disease that can cause scarring and fibrosis.

For these reasons, it is important to avoid eating pumice. If you are ever exposed to pumice, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly and avoid eating or drinking anything until you have done so. If you have any concerns about eating pumice, be sure to talk to your doctor.