Poisoning

Overview

Poisoning happens when a person is exposed to a substance that can cause harm. The substance may be swallowed, breathed in, injected, or absorbed through the skin. It can be accidental or intentional, and even everyday items can be poisonous if used in the wrong way or amount.

Poisoning is a common reason for emergency hospital visits. Every year, millions of people seek help for suspected poisoning, with children under five and older adults being the most frequent patients.

Anyone can be affected by poisoning, but young children (under 5 years old) and older adults (over 65) are at higher risk. People with mental health struggles, substance use disorders, or multiple medications are also more vulnerable.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Drowsiness or confusion
• Difficulty breathing
• Changes in heart rate (too fast or slow)
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

Symptoms in children

• Unusual sleepiness or difficulty waking
• Drooling or trouble swallowing
• Unexplained crying or irritability
• Burns or redness around the mouth (if a corrosive substance was swallowed)

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion that may be mistaken for dementia
• Weakness, dizziness, or falls
• Overdose from mixing medications or taking an extra dose by mistake

Causes

Main causes

• Medicines taken by mistake (wrong dose, wrong person, or mixing with alcohol)
• Household cleaning products, such as bleach or drain cleaner
• Carbon monoxide gas from faulty heaters, fires, or engines running indoors
• Pesticides, weed killers, or garden chemicals
• Illegal drugs or misuse of prescription drugs
• Alcohol, especially in large amounts or when mixed with other substances
• Certain wild plants, mushrooms, or berries
• Button batteries, which can cause severe internal burns if swallowed

Risk factors

• Young children exploring the home and putting objects in their mouths
• Older adults managing multiple medications or with memory problems
• Poor eyesight that makes reading labels difficult
• Mental health conditions leading to self-harm attempts
• Substance use disorders or alcohol dependence
• Storing chemicals in unmarked containers or food bottles
• Lack of carbon monoxide alarms and regular appliance servicing

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If the person shows any of the emergency symptoms listed above — call your local emergency number immediately.
• If you are unsure what substance was taken or how much was involved.
• If a child has swallowed a button battery or magnet.
• If the person is acting confused, very sleepy, or has collapsed.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If symptoms are mild and you know the substance is not dangerous (e.g., a small taste of soap). Call a poison centre or your doctor for advice.
• For a follow-up appointment after a poisoning incident.
• To get advice on how to make your home safer from poisoning risks.

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask detailed questions about what happened: the substance, how much was taken, when, and how the person is feeling. They will also do a physical examination and may order tests to check how the body is responding.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to look at organ function (liver, kidneys) and sometimes to identify the poison
• Urine tests to screen for certain drugs or chemicals
• Chest X-ray if there is a breathing problem or inhaled poison
• ECG (a heart tracing) to check for effects of certain medications or substances on the heart rhythm
• CT scan of the brain if the person is very confused or unconscious

What to expect at your appointment

Healthcare staff will ask many questions to understand the situation. It helps if you can bring the container, bottle, or label of the substance. The person may be monitored in an emergency department for several hours or admitted to hospital. They may need repeated tests to track recovery. The staff will treat any symptoms and keep the person safe.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type of poison, the amount, and the person's symptoms. The main aims are to support breathing, circulation, and other vital functions, and to stop the poison harming the body further. Many people recover fully with prompt and proper care.

Self-care at home

• If you suspect poisoning, do not make the person vomit unless a healthcare professional specifically tells you to do so.
• If the person is unconscious but breathing, place them in the recovery position (on their side) and call your local emergency number.
• If a chemical has splashed on skin or eyes, remove contaminated clothing and rinse the area with plenty of cool water for at least 15 minutes.
• Do not give anything to eat or drink until you have spoken to a poison expert.

Medical treatments

In hospital, activated charcoal may be given by mouth to absorb certain poisons if the person arrives within a short time (usually 1 hour) after swallowing the substance. For some specific poisons, antidotes are used to neutralise the effects. Supportive care includes oxygen, fluids through a vein (IV fluids), and medicines to control seizures, abnormal heart rhythms, or pain. If breathing is seriously affected, a machine (ventilator) may help. In rare cases, dialysis can be used to filter certain poisons from the blood. Treatment is always tailored to the individual.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is very rarely needed for poisoning. It may be considered if a corrosive substance has created a hole in the gut or if a large object like a button battery needs to be removed urgently.

Living with this condition

After recovery from poisoning, most people can return to their normal daily activities. If the poisoning caused any organ damage, you might need regular follow-up appointments with a specialist. Good communication with your healthcare team is key.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep all medicines and chemicals in their original containers with child-resistant caps.
• Store cleaning products, garden supplies, and alcohols high up or in a locked cupboard, out of sight and reach of children.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms and service fuel-burning appliances regularly.
• Always read medicine labels and follow the instructions. Never share prescription medicines.
• Dispose of unused or expired medicines safely — your pharmacist can advise how.

Diet and exercise

No specific diet is usually needed after a poisoning unless your doctor recommends it for your overall health. A balanced diet and drinking plenty of water can support your body’s recovery. Ask your doctor when it is safe to return to exercise or strenuous activities.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A poisoning event can be frightening for everyone involved. If the poisoning was intentional, it is very important to speak with a mental health professional. Support is available, and you are not alone. If you ever feel like harming yourself, or think someone else may be at risk, contact a crisis support line or go to your nearest emergency department immediately. Reaching out is a sign of strength.

Prevention

Yes, the majority of accidental poisonings can be prevented with simple safety steps at home. Being aware of the risks and taking action significantly reduces the chance of harm, especially for children and older adults.

Complications

If left untreated

• Organ failure, such as liver or kidney damage that may become permanent
• Breathing failure, which can be life-threatening
• Permanent brain damage from lack of oxygen or direct toxic effects
• Death

Long-term outlook

The outlook after poisoning varies greatly depending on the substance, the amount, and how quickly help is received. With prompt medical care, many people make a full recovery. Even serious poisonings can have good outcomes when treated without delay. Never hesitate to seek help — it gives the best chance for a positive result.

Find support

International organisations

• World Health Organization – Poisoning Prevention and Management ↗
• Befrienders Worldwide (emotional support directory) ↗

Local organisations

• NHS – Poisoning ↗ · United Kingdom

Helplines

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.