Acute arsenic exposure (i.e. high concentration about 1650ug/l ingested during short period of time) can cause a variety of adverse effects. Acute high dose oral exposure to arsenic typically leads to gastrointestinal irritation accompanied by difficulty in swallowing, thirst, and abnormally low blood pressure. Death may also occur from cardiovascular collapse.

Chronic arsenic uptake may have carcinogenic effects on humans, when the health significance of arsenic in drinking water is evaluated. The most common signs of long term low level arsenic exposure are dermal changes. This include variation in skin pigments, hyperkeratosis, and ulcerations. Vascular effects have also been associated with chronic arsenic exposure.

Large doses of inorganic arsenic can cause symptoms ranging from nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea to dehydration and shock. Long-term exposure to high levels of inorganic arsenic in drinking water is associated with certain medical conditions. These conditions include skin disorders, an increased risk for diabetes, high blood pressure, and several types of cancer. Inorganic arsenic and arsenic compounds are considered to be cancer-causing chemicals.