## Poisonings: A Comprehensive Overview
Poisoning, also known as intoxication, overdose, or toxicosis, is a medical condition that occurs when a harmful substance enters the body. These substances can be ingested, inhaled, absorbed through the skin, or injected.
### Symptoms
The symptoms of poisoning can vary depending on the type and amount of substance involved. Common symptoms include:
– **Gastrointestinal tract:** Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain
– **Liver:** Jaundice, liver failure
– **Kidneys:** Kidney failure
– **Heart:** Arrhythmias, heart failure
– **Brain:** Headache, dizziness, confusion, seizures, coma
### Diagnosis
Diagnosing poisoning requires a thorough medical history and physical examination. Blood tests, urine tests, and imaging studies may be performed to identify the specific substance involved.
### Prevention
Preventing poisoning is crucial. Here are some common measures:
– Store cleaning products and medications out of reach of children and pets.
– Use child-resistant containers for potentially toxic substances.
– Dispose of unused medications properly.
– Avoid contact with poisonous plants and animals.
### Treatment
Treatment for poisoning depends on the type and severity of the condition. It may involve:
– **Antidotes:** Specific medications to neutralize the effects of the poison.
– **Decontamination:** Removing the poison from the body through measures such as gastric lavage (stomach pumping) or activated charcoal administration.
– **Supportive care:** Managing symptoms such as respiratory distress, hypotension, and organ failure.
– **Organ transplantation:** In severe cases, organ transplants may be necessary if the kidneys, liver, or heart have been damaged.
### Complications
Poisoning can lead to serious complications, including:
– Organ damage
– Permanent disability
– Death
### Doctors Involved
Multiple types of doctors may be involved in the care of patients with poisoning, including:
– Emergency physicians
– Internists
– Toxicologists
– Nephrologists (kidney specialists)
– Hepatologists (liver specialists)
