Poisoning is the harmful effect that results when a toxic substance is introduced into the body at a dose sufficient to cause illness, injury, or death. Exposure can involve a wide range of materials, including medications, household cleaners, gases, or certain plants. The severity of the outcome depends on the substance, the amount involved, and the route by which it enters the body. Recognizing the signs and responding quickly is important, as the effects can manifest immediately or be significantly delayed.
Recognizing the Signs
Symptoms of poisoning can affect nearly every major organ system, making recognition dependent on observing a cluster of changes rather than a single sign. Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in cases of ingestion and can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and intense abdominal cramping. If a corrosive substance was swallowed, there may also be pain or visible burns around the mouth and throat.
Poisoning often impacts the central nervous system, leading to neurological changes like sudden confusion, dizziness, or unusual drowsiness. More severe effects include seizures, uncoordinated movements, or dramatic changes in pupil size (dilated or constricted). Behavioral shifts, such as becoming restless or agitated, can also indicate a toxic exposure.
Respiratory and circulatory distress signals the body’s struggle to cope. Signs include difficulty breathing, a rapid or very slow heart rate, or low blood pressure. Skin changes, such as a blue tint to the lips or skin (cyanosis), indicate a lack of oxygen.
Physical signs localized to the skin or breath can offer specific clues about the exposure. Unexplained rashes, chemical burns, or intense stinging sensations may point to dermal contact with a corrosive or irritant. A strange, unusual odor on the person’s breath or clothing may suggest the presence of certain volatile chemicals.
Common Exposure Sources
Poisoning occurs when a substance enters the body through one of four primary exposure routes: ingestion, inhalation, absorption, or injection. Ingestion is frequent, often involving the accidental overdose of over-the-counter or prescription medications. Accidental ingestion of household chemicals, like cleaning products or pesticides, is also a concern, particularly for young children.
Inhalation exposure involves breathing in toxic gases or fumes that enter the bloodstream through the lungs. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless and odorless gas and a dangerous cause of poisoning. Other inhalation risks include chemical fumes released when cleaning products, like bleach and ammonia, are mixed together.
Dermal exposure, or absorption through the skin, occurs when a substance is in prolonged contact with the body’s surface. This route is common with certain pesticides, chemical solvents, or contact with toxic plants.
Immediate Emergency Steps
If poisoning is suspected, the immediate response can significantly alter the outcome. First, secure the scene and remove the person from the source of the poison without endangering yourself. If the person inhaled a substance, move them immediately to fresh air. If the poison is on the skin, remove contaminated clothing and rinse the affected area with running water for 15 to 20 minutes.
The next step is to contact a medical expert for guidance. Call the National Poison Help Hotline at 1-800-222-1222, which connects you to a local poison control center for tailored first aid instructions. For a severe, life-threatening emergency, call 911. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling, as medical advice is important even if the person seems stable.
Be prepared to provide the expert with specific, detailed information for the correct treatment plan. Note the person’s age, weight, and any existing health conditions. Crucially, identify the substance involved, the estimated amount taken, and the time of exposure.
Unless a medical professional specifically instructs you to do so, never attempt to induce vomiting in the poisoned person. Inducing vomiting can cause additional harm, especially if the substance is corrosive. The only actions to take are those advised by the poison control center or emergency services.