What happens if you eat volcanic ash?

If you live in the Valley of Mexico, you have surely faced a myriad of weather challenges: hailstorms, heavy rains, extreme heat, and even volcanic ash from Popocatépetl. If at any moment you are affected by the volcanic activity of Popocatépetl, it is important to follow the authorities' guidelines and protect yourself to avoid health issues. At kiwilimón, your health matters to us, which is why we inform you about what happens if you accidentally eat volcanic ash and provide more information to help you protect yourself and your family. See more: Is it safe to drink tap water?What is volcanic ash?Volcanic ash is a substance made up of particles that are produced when volcanic rock is fragmented, according to the National Center for Disaster Prevention. Experts explain that it can be gray or black in color, and there are also variations in texture, as it can be fine powder or have a talc-like texture. How do I protect myself from volcanic ash?The experts from the National Center for Disaster Prevention recommend following these guidelines in case ash falls near your home, school, or workplace:Close all your doors and windows.Use wet cloths to cover small gaps or vents.Don’t forget to cover water tanks and other water storage!Avoid any contact with the ash.Do not engage in any outdoor activities.Protect your eyes, nose, and mouth.Take care of your pets! They should stay indoors and make sure their water or food has not been contaminated with volcanic ash.You can also read: 6 home remedies to relieve cough symptomsWhat happens if you eat volcanic ash?If any food has been contaminated with volcanic ash and you ingest it, this could cause severe health problems. In general, inhaling ash causes problems such as irritation of the respiratory tract, dry cough, and sore throat. On the other hand, it also causes eye irritation. Regarding the ingestion of volcanic ash, the National Center for Disaster Prevention indicates that, although this substance is not toxic, it consists of highly corrosive rock fragments and causes irritation, so its consumption should be avoided at all costs. Meanwhile, the University of Costa Rica explains that its consumption can lead to gastrointestinal problems. It is also very important to pay attention when going to markets or street vendors, as the fruits and vegetables sold may contain volcanic ash. In such cases, it is best to avoid outdoor meals and wash all food thoroughly before cooking or consuming it. If Popocatépetl has emitted smoke and volcanic ash has fallen near your home, it is essential to follow the aforementioned recommendations and stay informed about the volcano's activity. If you ingest ash, go to your nearest health center.See more: The best teas for cough