Blog

First Aid Treatment for Accidental Poisoning

Did you know that two to four million accidental poisonings are reported each year in the United States? Over 90% of the reported incidents happen at home. Health officials regularly consult poison control centers around the country about different cases and substances.

Poisoning occurs when a person ingests substances that can cause harm to the body, including chemicals, gases, drugs, and venom. Some are only poisonous in high concentrations, like carbon monoxide. Chemical cleaners and other similar substances are dangerous when swallowed. Children, in particular, are susceptible to poisoning.

Treatment can vary depending on the symptoms, age of the patient, and the substance involved.

Symptoms of Poisoning
The common symptoms and signs of poisoning can look like other conditions like intoxication, seizure, and stroke. That can include:

• Vomiting
• Burn marks or redness around the lips of the patient
• Chemical smell from their breath
• Difficulty breathing
• Altered mental condition or confusion
• Drowsiness
• Unconsciousness

The most crucial part of identifying poisoning is finding other signs in the area around the patient. Look for empty bottles, burns, stains, scattered pills, unusual odors, or other objects pointing to what was ingested. This is because anything is possible, especially if a child is involved. They are naturally curious and could try anything.

When to Call for Help
If you suspect someone is poisoned, you should immediately call for help. You can call emergency numbers and the poison help center at 800-222-1222.

Common Substances Involved in Accidental Poisoning
Some of the more common substances with accidental poisoning include:

• Overdosing medication like paracetamol
• Fentanyl patches
• Swallowing small batteries
• Dishwasher detergents
• Bleach
• Oven cleaners
• Garden sprays
• Silica gel
• Cosmetic products like perfumes
• Hand sanitizer
• Illicit drugs
• Certain types of plants

Get Immediate Help With ShorePoint Health Emergency & Urgent Care
Call 911 or immediately rush to ShorePoint Health Emergency & Urgent Care in Cape Coral, FL, if your know a person took poisonous substances or if they are showing signs of poisoning like:

• Drowsiness
• Unconsciousness
• Difficulty breathing or not breathing at all
• Experiencing seizures

Be ready to describe the nature of the emergency, including the age, weight, other medications the patient may be taking, and information about the poison. If you can determine what they took, the length of exposure, and the amount, the information would undoubtedly help the emergency personnel. If possible, bring the bottle or package of the poison so they can identify the label.