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The word "poison" -

For many people, the word "poison" tends to conjure up images of snakes and their venoms, or even witches cackling over their cauldrons.

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Medical definition -

The medical definition of the word, however, is much broader and considerably less dramatic. According to the NHS, poisoning happens when a person is exposed to a substance that can damage their health or endanger their life.

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Poisoning in children -

Poisoning can be accidental or deliberate, and the majority of cases happen at home. Children under the age of five are at particularly high risk.

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How it affects the body -

The symptoms of poisoning and, indeed, the way in which it affects the body, will depend largely on the type of poison and the amount ingested.

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If someone has been poisoned -

If you suspect that someone has been poisoned, it is important that you do not try to treat them yourself. Rather, you (or they) should seek urgent medical attention.

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Types of poison -

There are many different types of poisonous substances, and almost as many ways of taking them in. Poisons can be swallowed, injected, or absorbed through the skin, for example.

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Common form of poisoning -

The most common form of poisoning in many countries is an overdose of medication, whether prescription or over the counter.

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Other common poisons -

Other common poisons include gases (such as carbon monoxide), household products (such as bleach), and cosmetic items (such as nail polish).

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Food poisoning -

Food that has gone moldy, or which is poorly prepared or under-cooked, can also be poisonous, as can alcohol when consumed in excessive amounts over a short period of time.

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Important to remember -

While certain substances are poisonous even in tiny quantities, it is important to note that almost any substance can be poisonous if ingested in large enough quantities.

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Symptoms -

The way in which poisoning affects the body will depend largely on the type and amount of poison that has been taken in.

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Carbon monoxide -

Carbon monoxide, for example, interferes with the body's ability to carry oxygen. Bleach, by contrast, burns and irritates the digestive system.

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Symptoms are case-specific - The symptoms of poisoning therefore vary greatly depending on the case. There are, however, some general symptoms to watch out for.

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General symptoms -

The general symptoms of poisoning include, but are not limited to: nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pains, drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, fever, and headaches.

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Young children -

In the case of young children, parents should be aware that sudden, unexplained illness, especially if it causes drowsiness or unconsciousness, could be the result of poisoning.

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Medicine overdoses -

As previously mentioned, medicine overdoses are a particularly common cause of poisoning. In these cases, a person will usually experience symptoms specific to the medicine taken, as well as more general symptoms.

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Paracetamol overdose -

In the case of a paracetamol overdose, for example, specific symptoms include low blood sugar, loss of coordination, and yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes.

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Beta blockers overdose -

Specific signs of poisoning with beta blockers include low blood pressure (which can cause lightheadedness and fainting) and a heartbeat slower than 60 beats per minute.

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Treatment -

It is important to remember that being poisoned can be life-threatening. Therefore, if you suspect that someone has been poisoned, you should seek help immediately.

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How to help medical staff -

In order to effectively treat a person who has been poisoned, medical staff will need to take a detailed history. It is important to give them as much information as possible.

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Important questions -

Medical staff will need to know, for example, what substance you think the person may have ingested, as well as when, why, and how.

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Other relevant information -

In addition to information about the symptoms, they may also need to know the person's age and weight, whether they have any medical conditions, or whether they are taking any medications.

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Hospital admission -

In certain cases, a person who has been poisoned will be admitted to hospital for examination and treatment. Investigations may include blood tests and/or an echocardiogram.

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Possible treatments -

Possible treatments for poisoning include sedatives (if the person is agitated) and antidotes (these either prevent the poison from working or reverse its effects).

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Activated charcoal -

In some cases, doctors may use activated charcoal to treat someone who has been poisoned. The substance binds to the poison and stops it from being further absorbed into the blood.

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Prevention -

Of course, it is much better to prevent poisoning than to try and treat it. To reduce the risk of accidental poisoning by medicine, therefore, it is always important to read the leaflet and take the exact recommended dose.

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Seek advice -

If you are unsure about how to take your medicine, whether prescription or over the counter, it is always best to ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

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Children under five -

As previously mentioned, children under the age of five are at particularly high risk of poisoning. It is therefore important to take steps to minimize the risk.

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Harmful substances out of reach -

For example, medicines, cleaning products, and other potentially harmful chemicals should be kept locked away, out of the sight and reach of children.

Sources: (BBC) (MSD Manuals)

See also: The poisonous history of arsenic

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