Is Mettalic Taste In Mouth After Using Warming Pad Indicative Of Iron Poisoning?

Posted on Fri, 9 Jan 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 9 Jan 2015 Answered on

Fri, 6 Feb 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I accidently fell asleep with a warming pad containing iron powder on my lower back last night. Today, I have had a metallic taste in my mouth. Blood pressure and pulse are normal, however do feel slightly congested. Should I be concerned about iron poisoning?

Answered by Dr. Vivek Chail (29 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
There is no concern about iron poisoning while sleeping with warming pad

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX,
Thanks for writing in to us.

I have read through your query in details.
It is not possible for iron powder kept in a warming pad to enter your body in sufficient amount when you fall asleep on it. The iron just cannot enter you that way to cause poisoning.

The only risk from falling asleep while having a warming pad on is getting low temperature burns. Please check your back should you have any signs of burns and take treatment for it.

It is possible that you are having prodromal symptoms of cold or flu and therefore the alteration in taste experienced by you.

Hope this answers your question. Please feel free to correct any oversight in my interpretation of your problems and discuss them in detail as per your requirements.

Hope your query is answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.

Regards,
Dr.Vivek

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar