Poison Support: Expert Advice on Various Types of Poisoning

Summary

In this article, we will summarise the key points from the Poison Support podcast. Board-certified toxicologist Anne Chappel provides expert advice on various types of poisoning, including spider bites, eyedrops, poison gases, lead poisoning, toothpaste, food poisoning, vitamin overdoses, and the importance of calling poison control in case of unintended ingestion.

Brown Recluse Spider Bites: Keep the Spider
Eyedrops Can Be Poisonous
Poison Gases: Effects on the Lungs and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Lead Poisoning: Stabbing Yourself with a Pencil Won’t Cause It
Toothpaste Poisoning: Fluoride Content Can Be Dangerous
Food Poisoning: Common and Potentially Fatal
Delayed Effects of Toxins
Vitamin Overdoses: Water-Soluble vs. Fat-Soluble Vitamins and Iron Supplements
Importance of Calling Poison Control
Antidotes and LD50 Test
Activated Charcoal: Absorbing Different Toxicants

Brown Recluse Spider Bites: Keep the Spider

If you have been bitten by a brown recluse spider, it’s important to keep the spider. This will help medical professionals identify the type of spider and provide the appropriate treatment.

Eyedrops Can Be Poisonous

Eyedrops, such as Vyzine, can be poisonous if ingested. The active ingredient in these drops causes blood vessels to constrict, potentially leading to toxic effects.

Poison Gases: Effects on the Lungs and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Poison gases can have severe effects on the lungs, destroying the lining and affecting cell production. Carbon monoxide poisoning can also occur, which can be fatal.

Lead Poisoning: Stabbing Yourself with a Pencil Won’t Cause It

Contrary to popular belief, pencils do not contain lead. Stabbing yourself with a pencil will not lead to lead poisoning.

Toothpaste Poisoning: Fluoride Content Can Be Dangerous

Eating toothpaste can be poisonous due to the fluoride content. This can displace calcium and lead to seizures, convulsions, and even death.

Food Poisoning: Common and Potentially Fatal

Food poisoning is a common occurrence and can lead to hospitalisation and even death. Dehydration is a significant risk, so it’s important to stay hydrated during and after an episode of food poisoning.

Delayed Effects of Toxins

The delay for toxins to produce adverse health effects in the body is usually six to 12 hours. It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect poisoning, even if symptoms have not yet appeared.

Vitamin Overdoses: Water-Soluble vs. Fat-Soluble Vitamins and Iron Supplements

Overdosing on gummy vitamins can happen, but it’s not always harmful, especially with water-soluble vitamins. However, fat-soluble vitamins and iron supplements can be dangerous, especially for children.

Importance of Calling Poison Control

In case of unintended ingestion, it’s important to call poison control at 1-800-222-122, which is staffed 24/7. Poison control can provide expert advice and help determine the appropriate course of action.

Antidotes and LD50 Test

Antidotes work in different ways, such as trapping or neutralizing the chemical or inhibiting it at the site of toxicity. Toxicity is measured through an LD50 test, which determines the dose that kills 50% of animals.

Activated Charcoal: Absorbing Different Toxicants

Activated charcoal has been used for centuries to absorb different toxicants by physically binding them in the digestive tract. It can act on various poisons without knowing the exact substance, making it a valuable tool in treating poisoning.

Conclusion

In conclusion, poisoning can happen in various ways and can have severe consequences. It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect poisoning and to call poison control in case of unintended ingestion. With expert advice and appropriate treatment, poisoning can be managed effectively.