Poisoning or Acute Intoxication

Poisoning or intoxication refers to the harmful effect that occurs in the body when it comes into contact with a toxic substance. However, in some cases, poisoning occurs due to continuous or excessive exposure to components that are usually not dangerous. The prognosis of poisoning depends on both the toxic agent involved and the dosage.

When the body absorbs the toxic substance, it travels through the bloodstream and is distributed to the tissues and organs. Throughout this process, the body attempts to metabolize the toxin into a water-soluble compound that can be easily eliminated through excretion mechanisms. However, as it spreads to the organs, it may cause significant damage, leading to intoxication.

Intoxication is considered acute when clinical symptoms appear immediately after exposure to a high dose of the toxic substance, whereas chronic intoxication results from periodic exposure, even in smaller doses. Chronic intoxication has a delayed effect but often leaves long-term consequences.

Poisonings can be classified based on how the body comes into contact with the toxic agent:

• Digestive route: Poisoning due to ingestion of the toxic substance in solid or liquid form, such as food, beverages, caustic liquids, or acids.
• Respiratory route: Poisoning due to inhalation of toxic gases, such as fungicides, pesticides, paints, adhesives, or fire smoke.
• Cutaneous route: Poisoning due to absorption or contact with the skin, eyes, or mucous membranes of the mouth or nose, as occurs with poisonous plants or certain chemicals.
• Circulatory route: Poisoning due to injection of medications or from bites and stings by animals.

Accidental poisonings are the most common cause of non-fatal household accidents, with children and the elderly being particularly vulnerable. Some poisonings do not cause irreversible damage, whereas others can result in severe injuries or even death. Even if no symptoms appear, medical attention should be sought immediately if poisoning is suspected.

Symptoms

The symptoms of poisoning vary depending on the toxic agent and dosage, but also on age and pre-existing health conditions. In some cases, the first symptoms appear immediately after exposure to the toxin, whereas in others, they do not manifest until vital organs have been affected.

Signs of poisoning may include:

• Altered consciousness, ranging from drowsiness to fainting
• Agitation or hyperactivity
• Changes in heart rate and respiratory rate
• Abnormally high or low body temperature
• Itching, rash, or redness on the skin, eyes, or throat
• Burns in the mouth, tongue, or skin
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Coughing
• Dry mouth or excessive salivation
• Abdominal, chest, or headache pain
• Dilated or constricted pupils
• Vision disturbances
• Speech difficulties
• Uncoordinated movements
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Spontaneous bleeding
• Seizures

Causes

Any potentially toxic substance can cause poisoning, with intentional acute intoxications being significantly more frequent than accidental ones. The most common causes of intoxication include:

• Medications: Analgesics, benzodiazepines, antidepressants, and barbiturates
• Alcohol
• Household, agricultural, or industrial products
• Illegal drugs
• Mushrooms and plants
• Animal bites or stings

Risk Factors

The likelihood of accidental poisoning increases under the following conditions:

• Consumption of alcohol or illegal drugs
• Prescription of multiple medications
• Gas leaks in boilers, kitchens, or vehicles
• Regular exposure to toxic substances, such as pesticides, insecticides, or industrial chemicals at the workplace
• Consumption of spoiled or unknown-origin food or beverages
• Ingestion of wild mushrooms, plants, or berries
• Staying in areas with insects and snakes

Complications

Although acute intoxication generally has a good prognosis, if left untreated, it can be potentially fatal and cause serious disorders in the body, such as:

• Hemorrhages
• Respiratory failure
• Cardiac arrhythmias
• Pulmonary edema
• Permanent brain damage
• Shock
• Multiple organ failure

Prevention

Several measures can be taken to prevent poisonings, particularly at home:

• Store medications in their original containers, out of children's reach, and discard them once expired. Use pill dispensers if taking multiple medications daily.
• Keep household chemicals in their original packaging and avoid mixing products. Follow usage instructions and safety guidelines.
• Limit the intake of generic medications.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors.
• Reduce or eliminate alcohol and illegal drug consumption.

Which Doctor Treats Poisoning?

Poisoning is diagnosed and treated by specialists in emergency medicine, intensive care, or clinical toxicology.