What can cause chemical poisoning?
Common sources of chemical poisoning include:
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Household cleaners
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Laundry detergent
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Drain cleaners
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Varnishes
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Agricultural products
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Plants
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Industrial chemicals
Mixing chemicals can also result in a chemical poisoning. Identifying the type of poison involved is important to effectively treat the person.
What are the symptoms of a chemical poisoning?
Different chemicals will cause different symptoms. Common symptoms can include:
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Severe throat pain
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Trouble breathing
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Burns on the lips or mouth
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Sudden behavior changes, such as abnormal sleepiness, irritability, or jumpiness
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Nausea or vomiting
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Stomach cramps with no fever
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Abnormal drooling or odd odor on the breath
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Convulsions or unconsciousness (severe cases only)
What to do in case of chemical poisoning
The first action when a person has swallowed a toxic substance and is alert is to call Poison Control at 800-222-1222. This number will connect you to a local poison center that is free, confidential, and available 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
If a person is not breathing, unconscious, or having convulsions or seizures because of poisoning, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
Don't give a person who has been poisoned ipecac. This is a chemical used to cause vomiting (emetic). It's made from the dried root of a plant grown in Brazil called ipecacuanha. Ipecac was commonly used in the past. Guidelines now say not to use it because it can cause more harm than good.
