My son accidentally drank some diluted Dettol a couple of days ago. I reacted quickly by brushing his teeth and making him drink a lot of water. Thankfully, he seems normal now and I haven't noticed any effects yet. Should I be worried about any side effects showing up later?

Dr Dhankecha Dineshbhai

General Practitioner

• MBBS
• 6+ Yrs

Consult Now

The oily substance you noticed could be due to:

1. Excess sebum: Anal glands produce sebum, which can mix with stool.
2. Mucoid discharge: The anus naturally produces mucus, which can appear oily.
3. Dietary factors: Consuming oily foods or supplements (e.g., fish oil) might contribute to the oily appearance.
4. Gastrointestinal issues: Certain conditions, such as malabsorption or pancreatitis, can cause oily stools.

When to be concerned

1. Persistent or excessive oil: If the issue persists or worsens.
2. Other symptoms: Diarrhea, abdominal pain, or blood in stool.
3. Changes in stool color or consistency: If stools become pale, greasy, or floating.

Answered 04/07/2025