What is Poisoning?

• Poisoning occurs when harmful substances enter the body through swallowing, inhaling, injecting, or absorption through the skin.

• Poisons can damage organs, disrupt body functions, and can be life-threatening.

 

Common Causes

• Ingestion: 

  • Swallowing household chemicals, cleaning agents, pesticides, or medicines

  • Eating contaminated food or plants

• Inhalation: Inhaling gases, fumes, or smoke

• Skin contact: Absorbing toxins through skin contact (e.g. from plants)

• Injection: Injecting drugs

• Venom by animals
   

Signs and Symptoms

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal pain or cramping

• Difficulty breathing

• Drowsiness or unconsciousness

• Burns or redness around the mouth and lips

 

Dangers

• Breathing failure

• Shock

• Organ damage
   

Action to Take

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* Monitor vital signs closely and prepare for any deterioration.

 

What NOT to do

• Do not induce vomiting unless told to by medical professionals

• Do not give anything to eat or drink unless advised

• Do not try to neutralize the poison with other substances (e.g., vinegar, milk)
   

Prevention Tips

• Store chemicals, medicines, and cleaning agents locked away and out of reach of children

• Never transfer chemicals into food or drink containers

• Read labels and follow instructions carefully

• Use protective equipment when handling hazardous substances