Poisoning may be accidental, involving everyday substances, or deliberate, as in attempted suicide. It can be caused by eating contaminated food or poisonous plants, and by misuse of drugs and alcohol.

Recognition and Treatment of Poisoning

Features of poisoning vary depending on the poison, the method of entry, and the amount taken. A conscious casualty or onlooker may report a poisoning. If the casualty is unconscious, poisoning may be deduced from external features such as a fume-filled room or a suspect container.

Medical attention is always advisable in cases of poisoning, and is essential in severe cases. Although poisoning can be fatal, most cases are treated successfully.

What is a Poison?

A poison, or toxin, is a substance that can cause temporary or permanent damage if taken into the body in sufficient quantity. A poison may be swallowed, inhaled, injected, instilled at the eye, or absorbed through the skin. Once introduced into the body, a poison can quickly be carried to all the tissues via the bloodstream. Signs and symptoms vary, depending on the poison and its method of entry. Vomiting is common to many cases, with the attendant risk of inhalation of the stomach contents.

Further Reading:-

Articles:

First Aid for Food Poisoning and Poisonous Plants

First Aid for Household Poisons

DISCLAIMER

THIS INFORMATION (AND ANY ACCOMPANYING MATERIAL) PROVIDED BY VITAMIN UK IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE THE ATTENTION OR ADVICE OF A PHYSICIAN OR OTHER HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL. ANYONE WISHING TO EMBARK ON ANY DIETARY, DRUG, EXERCISE, OR OTHER LIFESTYLE CHANGE INTENDED TO PREVENT OR TREAT A SPECIFIC DISEASE OR CONDITION SHOULD FIRST CONSULT AND SEEK CLEARANCE FROM A QUALIFIED HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL. VITAMIN UK STRIVES TO ENSURE THAT INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS SITE IS AS ACCURATE AS POSSIBLE, BUT DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY INACCURACIES.