What Is Poisoning?
Poisoning happens when someone is exposed to a harmful substance through swallowing, breathing, skin contact, or eye exposure. Common causes include medicines, household cleaners, chemicals, and toxic fumes.
Common causes of poisoning include:
- Swallowing medicines or chemicals
- Inhaling toxic fumes or gases
- Mixing cleaning products such as bleach and ammonia
- Skin exposure to pesticides or chemicals
- Eye exposure to household cleaners
- Carbon monoxide exposure
Poisoning can range from mild to life-threatening depending on the substance involved and the amount of exposure. Children are especially vulnerable to accidental poisoning because they may swallow or touch harmful products without realizing the danger. Quick action and early medical care are important.
Symptoms
Symptoms can appear suddenly or develop over time depending on the type of poison.
Common symptoms may include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Trouble breathing
- Drowsiness or confusion
- Burns around the mouth
- Excess drooling
- Seizures
- Skin redness or irritation
- Eye pain or redness
- Loss of consciousness
How Is It Diagnosed?
Healthcare providers diagnose poisoning by reviewing symptoms, exposure history, and the substance involved if known.
Evaluation may include:
- Physical examination
- Review of medicine bottles or chemical containers
- Blood tests
- Imaging or monitoring in severe cases
Poison Control specialists may also help guide treatment recommendations.
How Is It Treated?
Treatment depends on the type of poison and how serious the exposure is. Some mild exposures may be managed at home with instructions from Poison Control, while severe poisonings require emergency care.
Treatment may include:
- Calling Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222
- Flushing the skin or eyes with water
- Moving to fresh air after inhaling fumes
- Oxygen therapy or IV fluids
- Medicines to counteract certain poisons
- Hospital monitoring and supportive care
Do not try to make someone vomit unless directed by a healthcare provider or Poison Control.
Many people recover fully when poisoning is treated quickly. Prevention is important and includes storing medicines and chemicals safely out of reach of children.
