Poisoning help at home. Food poisoning symptoms and treatment. Types, classification of poisoning. First aid, diet and prevention. When is hospitalization necessary?

People quite often prefer to be treated at home, and for any disease, if their condition is not completely critical, and during food poisoning, treatment at home is more the norm than the exception.

Poisoning itself is an acute disorder in the digestive system, a malfunction of the intestines and stomach, which is caused by the ingestion of low-quality or spoiled products.

It is not at all difficult to recognize this unpleasant illness; it is difficult to ignore it. But quite often, especially in the summer, people confuse simple intestinal ailment with it.

Signs

Of course, the clinical picture of this unpleasant disease may have individual characteristics, depending on the health, the toxin that has entered the body and, mainly, the age of the affected person. But the general symptoms and signs of food poisoning in children and adults are the same:

prolonged severe nausea, the person literally “throws up”;
muscle spasms in the stomach and intestines;
uncontrollable vomiting;
diarrhea or diarrhea with pain in the intestines and a specific “sick” smell;
rapid increase in body temperature;
general weakness, especially in children, it can be difficult to simply get out of bed;
dizziness, sometimes incoordination and fainting, which is caused by dehydration;
a sharp drop in pressure, this is typical mainly for older people;
shaking, convulsions and other manifestations of disturbances in the functions of the nervous system caused by general destabilization in the body.

Types of poisoning

Before taking independent actions aimed at treating food poisoning and their consequences, you need to remember that the classification of this disease involves two types:

Acute food toxicosis and toxicological infections.
Toxic species poisoning.

People get the first type of illness due to the fault of low-quality or expired, spoiled products, food contaminated with various microorganisms. Often, food poisoning of a microbial or bacteriological type can occur as a “response” to failure to comply with normal hygiene and basic sanitation, such as washing hands before eating.

This is what becomes the most common cause of poisoning during snacks along the way, fast food products, all kinds of burgers, shawarma and the rest of the range of shopping tents. It is quite possible to cope with this type of illness on your own, consulting a doctor only when necessary, if the digestive disorder is extremely severe.

Poisoning of non-microbial origin, belonging to the second type, occurs when poisons and toxic toxic substances enter the body, for example, when eating inedible mushrooms, berries or chemicals, the same tablets.

If there is a thought that the disorder may be due to precisely these reasons, you need to urgently consult a doctor. Intoxication that is not bacterial in nature cannot be treated at home, only under the supervision of specialists in a hospital setting.

Also, if poisoning occurs during breastfeeding in both the mother and the baby, professional medical assistance is required. This situation does not allow self-medication, since it can cause harm to both mother and baby.

First aid

When faced with misfortune, people are often lost and cannot immediately figure out what to do and what to do first in case of food poisoning.

The main thing for first aid for food poisoning is to rinse the victim’s stomach. While the stomach is full of food products responsible for the disorder, intoxication of the human body continues and his condition, accordingly, worsens.

Freeing your body from leftover food is quite simple:

drink from one and a half to two liters of warm water;
wait a few minutes;
induce vomiting;
repeat until food stops coming out.

Instead of empty water, it makes sense to use a manganese solution; it helps additionally by disinfecting the stomach and walls of the esophagus. It is important that the resulting mixture is light, that is, the main thing when preparing this solution is not to overdo it with the amount of potassium permanganate.

For adults – a tablespoon per couple of liters of warm water.
A child has a dessert spoon or one and a half teaspoons per two liters, but the baby will drink only a liter at a time to induce vomiting.

The point of using soda is that it washes away the mucous membrane that already contains toxins from the walls of the esophagus and stomach. But quite a lot of people cannot tolerate soda, and if its amount in the solution is exaggerated, there is a risk of causing gastritis.

Treatment

After the stomach is washed out, it is necessary to begin treatment. The main treatment for food poisoning at home is taking sorbents.

The most famous, accessible and in demand of them is, of course, activated carbon. The composition of this unique and very ancient medicine is completely of natural origin:

coke products;
recycled wood;
shells of walnuts, hazelnuts, coconuts and other nuts.

This sorbent can be given to pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding (BF), can be given to a child. But, like any medicine, it is important to calculate the dosage correctly.

This drug is dosed simply - 1 tablet for every 10 kg of a person’s weight, for pregnant and lactating women 1.5 carbon pucks per 10 kg.

There is also nothing complicated about how to treat coal poisoning:

Calculate the required number of tablets, taking into account the weight and general condition of the sick person.
Mash the charcoal, dilute the resulting powder in half a glass of warm water; a larger volume of water will provoke nausea.
Drink the medicine 4-6 times a day for three days, and then - depending on the patient’s well-being, the most for a long time to remove toxic substances and normalize digestion - this is one week.

It is not necessary to crush the tablets, but given the esophagus weakened by vomiting and difficulties in the swallowing reflex, it will be easier for the sick person to take the solution than hard washers.

Situational problems that arise with any illness sometimes require a quick solution, even if it is an eating disorder. For a quick, safe solution to the problem that does not require bed rest, you can take a sorbent alternative to the usual coal - white coal.

Its dosage for an adult is from 2 to 5 tablets at a time, 2-3 times a day; when taking it, you need to focus on the severity of the condition.

Here's what else you need to take during treatment at home for a faster recovery:

lactofiltrum;
smecta;
enterosgel.

These medications also have a sorbing effect, and they should be taken according to the instructions included with the medications. However, no matter what medications are chosen, you should always read the paragraphs in the annotations that tell you how the drugs are combined with each other.

After the first necessary aid has been provided, treatment has been determined and started, a number of other questions arise:

When and what you can eat after poisoning.
After how many hours does the effect of treatment appear?
What else needs to be done to help a poisoned body.

The answer to these questions is also simple.

As a rule, on the first day, the patient does not want and cannot eat. To maintain the body, it will be very useful to drink vegetable or cereal broths, without spices, slightly salted.

As soon as a symptom such as vomiting goes away, you need to start eating - liquid mashed potatoes, the same gruel from other vegetables, liquid porridge with water - rice or buckwheat. Food should be lean, without oil or flavorings, and easy to swallow and digest.

Experts do not have a consensus on how to eat on the first day after poisoning and at the beginning of the second day, but they agree on the prohibitions:

You can't do anything extreme - pickles or marinades will lead to severe cramps.
All dairy foods are prohibited - it will return diarrhea and nausea.

Gradually, as your health improves, food should become more familiar. Usually, by the end of the week, nutrition after poisoning is no longer relevant.

What can you eat after poisoning and what is better to drink:

Teas without sugar.
Cereal and vegetable broths without oil and spices.
Liquid vegetable purees and porridges.
Decoctions of chamomile, rose hips or St. John's wort.
Still mineral water.
Crackers or cookies without butter, sugar, additives - homemade is better.
Blueberry or cherry jelly, preferably unsweetened.
By the end of the third day, boiled chicken and chicken broth.

Not allowed in the first 3-4 days:

Dairy.
Meat.
Eggs.
Salted and pickled.
Apples and other fruits.

A mandatory part of the patient’s diet is drinking, because the intoxication process leads to severe dehydration. It is very good to drink a decoction of rosehip berries often in small quantities - this is a product that helps to recover and has an independent healing effect.

Preventive measures

Prevention of food poisoning and intestinal infections becomes relevant for any person who has at least once experienced very unpleasant moments of food or drink poisoning.

The actions you need to take on a subconscious level and make a habit are simple:

Wash your hands - before eating and preparing it, while cooking, when changing food, after returning from outside or visiting the toilet.
During the hot season, it is better to use disposable paper towels in the kitchen or change fabric towels daily.
Carefully read the expiration dates and storage conditions of all purchased products; for example, many ketchup spoil without refrigeration.
It is good to work on meat, poultry, fish and eggs - a steak with blood, of course, is beautiful, but it can put you in bed with a diagnosis, after which a completely unromantic pastime ensues.
Do not forget to change the washing sponges without waiting for them to wear out, but it is better to wash the dishes with brushes, which are then rinsed to remove food residues.
Ensure and make a habit of hygiene and sanitation not only in the kitchen, but also in general in everyday life and behavior.
Do not eat in questionable establishments or on the go, with dirty hands.
Do not drink juices whose packaging is swollen.

Food poisoning and its prevention today are a hot topic for doctors, teachers in schools, educators and nannies in kindergartens and simply in many families. However, it is important not only to know preventive measures, but also to follow them in order to avoid unpleasant consequences.

Video: food poisoning.

Foodborne infections

However, just like poisoning, symptoms of any of the following diseases may appear:

Dysentery.
Salmonellosis.
Botulism.
Orthoviruses.
Stomach flu.
Enteroviruses.
Rotaviruses.
Typhoid fever.

These diseases require hospitalization, but their first manifestations are disguised as simple poisoning from spoiled food. You need to start worrying and call doctors if:

vomiting that does not go away for more than three hours despite all measures taken;
diarrhea with blood;
diarrhea lasting more than six hours;
raising the temperature to 38 and not falling below 37 during the day;
persistent severe pain in the intestines;
progressive weakness and fainting.

Also, doctors should always be called immediately for children under five years of age, pregnant women and very elderly people.

Although food poisoning can be successfully treated at home, it is always better to be on the safe side and avoid it by practicing basic sanitation and exercise normal caution.

Anyone can become a victim of poisoning. And if measures are not taken in time, the outcome of intoxication of the body can be very sad, even death. Of course, a medical professional should assist in this matter. But it often happens that the ambulance does not arrive immediately, and every minute is important. Therefore, any person should know how to help the victim.

What to do if a person is poisoned?

Most types of poisoning are accompanied by the following symptoms:

nausea;
vomiting;
cutting pain in the stomach area;
diarrhea;
fever.

If intoxication is acute, convulsive states are possible. However, the symptoms of poisoning caused by different substances vary somewhat. And the sequence of actions to provide assistance should not be the same in all cases.

Let's look at several types of poisoning. The most common is food. What to do if a person is poisoned by low-quality or expired food:

Rinse the stomach. To do this, you need to drink at least a liter of clean water, then press with your fingertips on the root of the tongue. Such actions will cause vomiting, which will lead to ridding the body of toxic substances that have entered it.
The victim must take absorbent drugs. Activated carbon is considered the most common, effective and inexpensive. It must be taken in large quantities: one tablet for every ten kilograms of body weight.
After taking the adsorbent, you need to lie down in a comfortable position.
A prerequisite is to drink plenty of water. In case of poisoning, dehydration occurs. You need to drink often.
During the period of food intoxication, you should limit your food intake. A light diet is recommended for the next two days.
If the victim does not feel relief, he is bothered by pain, heat or chills, then follows in mandatory consult a doctor.

What to do if you are poisoned by alcohol?

There are two causes of alcohol intoxication:

excessive drinking;
drinking fake alcohol even in small doses.

The first signs that a person has been poisoned are facial redness, increased sweating, dilated pupils, blurred vision, and vomiting. If first aid is not provided, the victim may fall into a coma.

If you notice the above symptoms, you need to call an ambulance. After this, induce vomiting to remove residual alcohol from the stomach. Under no circumstances should the victim be placed on his back. After gastric lavage, you should take the adsorbent. Fast blood flow to the brain will help a person regain consciousness. To do this, you need to rub your ears and let them smell ammonia.

What to do if you are poisoned by mercury?

Symptoms of mercury vapor poisoning are as follows: the victim has a metallic taste in his mouth, he experiences pain when swallowing saliva, nausea, and his gums may bleed. At the same time, the person becomes very weak and lethargic. The sooner first aid is provided, the better. But it needs to be provided before the doctors arrive.

The victim must go out into fresh air. His stomach must be cleared by induced vomiting. After this, the person needs to drink water, preferably with sulfur admixtures. The more liquid you drink, the faster the mercury will be eliminated from the body.

What to do if you have carbon monoxide poisoning?

Provide the victim with fresh air.
If a person does not have enough air, then artificial respiration must be performed.
Place gauze with ammonia to your nose.
Give the victim something warm. Before the doctors arrive, he should drink the maximum amount of liquid.
If necessary, apply a heating pad to your feet.
In case of severe carbon monoxide poisoning, the victim must be hospitalized.

Food poisoning is a digestive disorder that occurs as a result of eating food that contains microorganisms that are toxic or harmful to the human body. Bacteria, in the presence of a number of factors, are the main cause of exposure to the body.

failure to comply with personal hygiene rules;
eating stale food products;
improper storage or preparation of food;
weakening of the immune system.

Types of food poisoning

Modern medicine divides food poisoning into two main groups:

microbial origin – toxic infections, toxicoses, mixed;
non-microbial origin, which are caused by poisonous animal tissues and poisonous plants.

Sometimes the cause cannot be determined.

Among the food products that carry a potential danger of poisoning are:

raw eggs;
mushrooms;
fish and meat;
dairy and fermented milk products;
homemade marinades and canned goods;
confectionery products with protein and butter creams;
catering dishes, the preparation of which violated sanitary standards;
products with damaged packaging.

Symptoms

The clinical picture depends on the amount of poor-quality food products or toxic substances that have entered the gastrointestinal tract, as well as on the type of toxic agent or type of toxin. Depending on this, the duration of the incubation period of the disease can vary from several hours to several days.

The first symptoms of the disease are sudden pain in the abdomen, and after a short period of time they may be accompanied by diarrhea (however, its presence is not necessary). At this stage, nausea and vomiting are likely to occur. Symptoms of food poisoning during this period arise due to the negative impact of microbes and their toxins on the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines (symptoms of gastroenterocolitis).

The body's response to infection is intoxication, which occurs as a result of toxins entering the blood. The degree of intoxication determines the severity of the patient's condition. The main symptoms of intoxication include:

headache and general weakness of the body;
lethargy;
increased body temperature, chills;
nausea and vomiting;
pain in muscles and joints.

Vomiting and diarrhea that accompany food poisoning can lead to loss of fluid in the body.

Symptoms of dehydration are as follows:

diarrhea, nausea and vomiting;
general weakness;
headache;
increased heart rate;
thirst;
decreased urination;
dry mucous membranes.

First aid

When the first symptoms occur, you should seek medical help to treat food poisoning. But before the specialist arrives, you can carry out treatment at home to make the patient feel better. Timely provision of emergency first aid often saves not only health, but also a person’s life.

If a person exhibits characteristic symptoms of food poisoning, the first step is to rinse his stomach. The most common rinsing agent is a weak solution of potassium permanganate. But in this case, there is one caveat - even the tiniest, undissolved crystal can cause severe burns to the mucous membranes of the mouth, esophagus and stomach.

Treatment of food poisoning at home can be carried out with a solution prepared from a liter of boiled water, five drops of iodine and two tablespoons baking soda. This tool is no less effective, and in terms of safety, much more reliable. The patient needs to drink the maximum amount of the prepared solution (as much as he can), and then induce vomiting by pressing a finger on the root of the tongue. Gastric lavage is carried out until the vomit becomes clean and transparent.

Immediately after gastric lavage, in the absence of diarrhea, the patient should be given a laxative or a few tablespoons of vegetable oil. If there is diarrhea, the patient is given activated carbon (1 tablet per 5 kg of weight).

After these procedures, the patient must be warmed:

wrap in a warm blanket;
apply a heating pad to your feet;
offer warm tea.

Treating food poisoning at home

For mild illness, no specific treatment for poisoning is required. Within 1-3 days, if you follow a gentle diet and drink plenty of fluids, the patient’s condition returns to normal. In case of severe poisoning, treatment at home is dangerous.

Drug treatment will be more effective and will consist of the following elements.

1. Rehydration therapy as the main method of treating food poisoning. The use of rehydrants leads to the restoration of water and electrolyte deficiency in the body. Rehydration is carried out orally using Regidron, Oralit, Litrozol, Chlorazol. In severe cases or when fluid volume is restored in young children, rehydration is carried out parenterally using the drugs Lactosol, Acesol, Trisol, Chlosol, Kvartasol.

2. Sorption therapy. Enterosorbents during the period of absence of vomiting and in the intervals between taking other medications help to quickly eliminate toxins. Adsorption involves the use of the following drugs: black or white coal, Enterosgel, Smecta, Polysorb, Sorbogel, Polyphepan, etc.

Sorption therapy is not carried out at high body temperatures, and also requires maximum caution when administered to children and elderly patients.

3. Pain therapy. Food poisoning with intense pain syndrome, which is accompanied by diarrhea with a painful urge to defecate, should be treated with antispasmodics: No-Shpa, Spazgan, Drotaverine, Spazmalgon.

4. Antibacterial and antimicrobial therapy. Drugs in this group are prescribed extremely rarely, as they can aggravate the picture of dysbacteriosis along with poisoning. Antimicrobial drugs and antibiotics are prescribed for mixed poisoning (Fthalazol, Intetrix, Nifuroxazide, Ersefuril).

5. Antidiarrheal and antiemetic therapy. Due to the fact that diarrhea and vomiting are the body’s defense reactions to poisoning, you should not immediately deal with them. But in cases where these symptoms are very pronounced, the patient is prescribed antiemetic drugs (Motilium, Cerucal) and drugs for diarrhea (Loperamide, Trimebutin).

6. Antipyretic therapy. The increase in body temperature during poisoning does not reach high levels. However, some adults and children do not tolerate hypothermia well. Such patients are prescribed Ibuprofen, Ibuklin, Paracetamol.

7. Therapy that restores intestinal microflora. Food poisoning disrupts the normal intestinal biocenosis. It requires restoration with the help of the following drugs: Bifidumbacterin, Bioflor, Linex, Bionorm, Enterozermina, actisubtil.

Treatment with folk remedies

There are many ways home treatment in case of food poisoning. If poisoning in an adult is not very acute, you can safely use recipes traditional medicine.

Every 15 minutes after the first signs appear for an hour, take 3-5 g of activated carbon or specially treated clay.
Every hour for 3 hours, take 1-2 g of vitamin C.
A decoction of marshmallow root with the addition of honey for oral administration, 1 tablespoon 4 times a day.
Treatment of poisoning at home is carried out with a decoction of dill with the addition of honey, take half a glass before meals.
An infusion made from ground ginger should be taken every half hour, a tablespoon.
Cinnamon infusion is used as a natural sorbent and antispasmodic.
A decoction of wormwood and yarrow is used to cleanse the body of toxic substances.
You can stop the proliferation of bacteria by using juice squeezed from three lemons, adding water and sugar. The resulting remedy is drunk in one gulp.
Mixture for single use, prepared from 150 g of orange juice and raw egg. After this, you need to drink as much water as possible throughout the day.

If a minor is sick, consult a doctor before treating food poisoning in a child.

Diet

Proper nutrition in most cases is the main factor in the treatment of poisoning. It helps restore normal water-salt balance, normalize work gastrointestinal tract, preventing exhaustion of the body.

On the first day of symptoms of food poisoning, special importance is given not to food, but to drink. An adult should drink at least 2 liters of fluid per day. To avoid provoking vomiting, you need to drink in small portions, but often. The following are recommended as safe drinks: sweet tea, boiled water acidified with lemon, rosehip decoction, fruit drinks, compotes.

When the signs of acute poisoning subside, the patient should follow a gentle diet, which involves:

number of meals per day – 5-6 times;
small serving size;
limiting fatty foods;
limiting the consumption of foods containing carbohydrates (vegetables and fruits);
introduction of animal protein into the diet;
food should be easily digestible (semi-liquid consistency).

Prevention

Food poisoning is very easy to provoke from low-quality food products, as well as those with expired expiration dates. Keep your kitchen clean and disinfect kitchen utensils.

Use fresh produce and wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Rinse the greens under running water.

Keep cooked food in a sealed container. It is better to expose yesterday's food heat treatment before use.

Maintain personal hygiene by washing your hands before preparing food. Remember that your gut health depends on your food.

Food poisoning is one of the most unpleasant conditions. Everything hurts - stomach, intestines, temperature rises, bones ache, etc. The degree of departure can be so strong that it is impossible to do without medical intervention.

What nuances do you need to know about food poisoning, what to do in case of food poisoning and how to help yourself or to a loved one before the doctor arrives? Let's figure it out.

Generally speaking, food poisoning is a disruption of the normal functioning of human organs due to the ingestion of poisonous or toxic substances.

Food poisoning can be divided according to severity at several stages.

Moderate stage. Occurs when a small amount of a toxic substance enters the body. Manifests itself in the form of nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, sometimes a slight increase in temperature is possible.
Acute stage. It is characterized by sudden and severe damage to the body and the rapid onset of symptoms. Fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea - all these consequences appear quickly and abundantly within a short period of time.
Hyperacute poisoning. The most severe case of large amounts of poison entering the body. The consequences are extremely serious - depressed consciousness or its complete loss, seizures, convulsions, respiratory arrest.
Chronic poisoning. With prolonged exposure to small amounts of toxic substances, for example, with constant consumption of unsuitable foods, this type of disease is also possible. General passivity, drowsiness, malaise in the gastrointestinal tract, unhealthy complexion, nausea indicate chronic poisoning. Moreover, over time, a person’s well-being only worsens until the disease becomes acute.

Despite its sufficient prevalence, food poisoning remains a kind of blank spot in our lives. This happens for two reasons.

Firstly, the symptoms of poisoning are very extensive and characteristic of many other diseases, which means that diagnosis becomes difficult.

Secondly, and this is entirely on the conscience of the patients themselves, we often neglect what we eat. Snacks on the road, strange cafes, food of dubious quality, unsanitary conditions - nothing stops us from snacking.

The general signs of poisoning are known to many, but not everyone knows what symptoms are characteristic of this or that type of phenomenon.

To provide effective targeted assistance, it is necessary to take into account the following classification of poisonings.

Bacterial damage. Occurs when consuming food contaminated with E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, etc. This poisoning is characterized by the following symptoms - vomiting, severe intestinal colic, diarrhea. Moreover, it should be taken into account that the listed consequences occur quite quickly after eating low-quality food - on average after 1-2 hours.
Chemical poisoning. To give an appetizing “fresh” appearance, many vegetables and fruits are treated with special chemical compounds. Or similar chemicals are already present inside the fruits, since synthetic fertilizers were used in large quantities when growing them. Such poisoning manifests itself as follows: dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, profuse salivation and sweating, pain in the stomach, blurred vision. Symptoms of chemical poisoning appear very quickly, within an hour.
Botulism. Fans of canned and pickled foods should be extremely careful. Microorganisms that appear in sealed jars can cause death. Botulism appears 10-15 hours after eating foods. The central nervous system bears the brunt of botulism. A person’s visual and speech functions sharply deteriorate, dry mouth appears and swallowing reflexes become difficult, followed by nausea and vomiting.

Any of the listed poisonings can pass easily, or can cost health and even life. Do not waste precious time; if several signs of one or another poisoning appear, call an ambulance.

Treatment of food poisoning

Treatment of the disease is carried out in several stages.

First of all, This is gastric lavage. It is imperative to remove the toxic element from the body.
Secondly, it is necessary to take sorbent substances.
Third, it is necessary to restore the water-salt balance. During gastric lavage and due to diarrhea and vomiting, a person loses a large number of fluid that needs to be restored.
Final stage– restorative preventive procedures.

In case of severe poisoning, a person is placed in a hospital for several days, where he undergoes all the necessary procedures.

The question arises: they called an ambulance, but what should they do: sit back and wait? Of course no. It is necessary to provide the most comfortable conditions for the patient and help him in every possible way. What to do if you are poisoned at home?

As in the case of inpatient treatment, gastric lavage will be the first aid at home. But if the conditions of a medical institution allow the use of special devices for this procedure, then at home you will have to cope with improvised means.

In case of poisoning at home, it is necessary to induce vomiting artificially. To do this, you need to give the patient a weak solution of potassium permanganate or soda (15 g per liter) to drink and press the root of the tongue with two fingers. Repeat the procedure two or three times.

After the initial cleansing, it is necessary to get rid of remaining toxins as quickly as possible. Activated carbon works well for this. It should be taken at the rate of 1 tablet per 10 kg of patient weight.

Next, you need to provide the patient with plenty of fluids. You should drink salted water, weak tea, compotes, fruit drinks. However, it is better to avoid eating on the first day. And after recovery, start your diet with low-fat dietary and gentle foods - purees, dairy-free cereals, jelly, crackers.

After treatment, the patient requires rest and bed rest until complete recovery.

Prevention

The phrase has already been mentioned more than once and is familiar to everyone - it is better to prevent than to treat. Of course, it is wiser not to bring the situation to a critical point. To prevent food poisoning, you should follow a few simple rules.

Follow your diet. By consuming food at a strictly defined time, you will save yourself from attacks of wild hunger, during which a person is able to eat anything and in large quantities.
Eat at home. Homemade food is the safest and healthiest. But if there is no possibility homemade food no, then visit only proven public catering places.
Drink plenty of fluids. Water helps get rid of toxins and poisons, so its consumption will be useful not only for those who have already been poisoned, but also as a preventive measure.
Buy products at trusted mass outlets - hypermarkets, markets, fairs. Tents with vegetables and fruits standing alone by the road are not the most reliable supplier of healthy products.

Mother of two children. I have been running a house for more than 7 years - this is my main job. I like to experiment, I constantly try different means, methods, techniques that can make our life easier, more modern, more fulfilling. I love my family.

The site provides background information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

What is poisoning?

Poisoning is a pathological condition in which bacteria, any toxins or other toxic substances enter the human body. These substances can enter the body in various ways ( with food, inhaled air or through the skin), however, all of them certainly cause damage to various organs and disruption of their functions, which is accompanied by corresponding clinical manifestations and creates a danger to human health and life.

Classification of poisonings

In clinical practice, it is customary to classify poisonings according to several criteria. This helps doctors determine the cause of the disease, as well as make a diagnosis and prescribe the correct treatment.

Depending on the route of entry into the body, the following are distinguished:

Food poisoning– when toxins or poisons enter the human body along with food ( through the gastrointestinal tract).
Poisoning through the respiratory tract– when the toxin enters the body along with inhaled air ( in the form of steam or gas).
Percutaneous poisoning– when toxins enter the skin or mucous membranes of a person, and through them are absorbed into the systemic bloodstream.
Poisoning in which the toxin is administered directly intravenously or intramuscularly.

Depending on the type of toxic substance, the following are distinguished:

Food intoxication ( food poisoning) – in this case, the disease is caused by eating food that has been contaminated with any dangerous bacteria or their toxins.
Gas poisoning– develops when inhaling any toxic gases.
Chemical poisoning– chemicals include various toxins and poisons that under normal conditions should not enter the human body.
Poisoning with cauterizing substances ( acids or alkalis) – allocated to a separate group, due to the peculiarities of their clinical manifestations.
Drug poisoning– develops due to improper use of medications.
Ethanol poisoning ( alcohol, which is part of all alcoholic drinks) – also included in a separate group, which is explained by the specific effect of alcohol on the human body.

Depending on the speed of development of symptoms, there are:

Acute poisoning– develops with a single intake of a large dose of a toxic substance into the body and is accompanied by the rapid appearance and rapid development of clinical symptoms.
Chronic poisoning– occurs when small doses of toxin enter the body over a long period of time and can be asymptomatic for some time, but ultimately also leads to disruption of the functions of vital organs and systems.

Causes, types and pathogenesis ( development mechanism) food poisoning, infections and toxic infections

As follows from the above, poisoning can develop when various pathogenic bacteria enter the body, as well as toxic substances produced by them ( in the latter case we're talking about about toxic infection). Each of these substances can have its own effect on the tissues and organs of the body, causing corresponding changes in them, which is accompanied by characteristic clinical manifestations and requires specific treatment. That is why it is extremely important to promptly determine the type of toxic substance and begin treatment. This will prevent the development of complications and save the patient’s life.

Spicy food ( intestinal) poisoning in an adult ( expired food products, meat, fish, eggs, milk, cottage cheese)

Acute food poisoning ( food intoxication) is a group of diseases in which a person ingests any microorganisms along with food ( bacteria, pathogenic fungi) or toxins released by pathogenic microorganisms. If such bacteria or their toxins enter the gastrointestinal tract ( Gastrointestinal tract), they affect the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines, leading to the appearance of classic signs of poisoning ( abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea and so on). Moreover, these toxins can be absorbed through the gastrointestinal mucosa and enter the systemic circulation, affecting distant organs and leading to the development of complications.

Food poisoning can be caused by:

Spoiled meat. Meat is an ideal breeding ground for the growth and reproduction of pathogenic bacteria ( staphylococci, salmonella, E. coli and others). These bacteria may be present in meat products initially ( for example, if the killed animal was infected with any infection). In this case, the infectious agents or their toxins ( bacteria released into the environment during growth) can enter the human body by consuming insufficiently processed food ( that is, poorly fried or cooked meat). At the same time, bacteria can develop in meat that has already been cooked but not stored correctly. If it is stored outside the refrigerator for several hours or days, the number of pathogenic microorganisms in it may become sufficient to cause a foodborne infection.
Fish. Fish poisoning can occur for the same reasons as meat poisoning ( that is, due to improper processing and improper storage of fish products). In addition, some exotic varieties of fish may contain toxic substances ( e.g. puffer fish, sea bass, barracuda). In this case, the clinical manifestations of poisoning will depend on the type of poison that has entered the body. For example, the poison contained in puffer fish can cause paralysis of all muscles and respiratory arrest, which without medical help will inevitably lead to the death of a person. In other cases, symptoms of poisoning may be similar to common foodborne infections.
Eggs. The risk of egg poisoning increases if you eat waterfowl eggs ( ducks, geese). The fact is that some polluted water bodies may contain the salmonella bacterium. It can get into the meat and eggs of waterfowl, and with them ( due to improper heat treatment, that is, when eating raw eggs or soft-boiled eggs) can enter the human body. Having penetrated the intestines, salmonella secretes a special toxin that affects the mucous membrane of the intestinal wall, causing clinical manifestations of intestinal infection ( diarrhea, stomach pain and so on).
Milk. Poisoning from fresh homemade milk can occur if the animals that produce it ( goats, cows) are kept in unsanitary conditions. At the same time, various pathogenic bacteria may be present in the udder area of animals ( staphylococci, E. coli and so on), which will get into the milk during milking. If you drink this milk unprocessed, there is a high risk of developing food poisoning. Moreover, it is worth noting that some animals can be carriers of pathogens especially dangerous infections. For example, by consuming cow's milk, you can become infected with brucellosis, an infection caused by pathogenic microorganisms ( Brucella) and accompanied by damage to many body systems.
Cottage cheese. Cottage cheese, like any lactic acid product, is an ideal breeding ground for various pathogenic bacteria. If a product is left out of the refrigerator for a long time, the number of bacteria in it increases significantly ( This is facilitated by high ambient temperatures, at which the rate of bacterial reproduction increases). If you eat such cottage cheese, you may experience signs of an intestinal infection.

Poisoning by poisonous plants ( bleached, hemlock), mushrooms ( pale toadstool, fly agarics), berries ( belladonna, wolfberry)

Many plants contain substances that are toxic to the human body. Consumption of such plants or their fruits ( in particular wolfberries - belladonna, wolfberry) in food may be accompanied by symptoms of food poisoning, as well as other specific manifestations ( depending on what toxin was contained in the plant eaten).

Poisoning can be caused by eating:

Henbane. The toxicity of this plant is due to the substances it contains, in particular atropine and scopolamine. When ingested, they cause general weakness, dry mouth, severe thirst, emotional and motor agitation, and dizziness. In severe cases, visual and breathing disturbances, loss of consciousness, seizures and death may occur.
Hemlock. The toxicity of this plant is due to the substance it contains – coniine. This is a strong poison, which, when it enters the gastrointestinal tract, is quickly absorbed through the mucous membrane and enters the blood, affecting the central nervous system. This manifests itself as progressive paralysis, in which a person loses all types of sensitivity and cannot move his arms or legs. The cause of death is usually paralysis of the respiratory muscles, causing the patient to stop breathing.
Pale toadstool ( fly agaric). A toxin found in some fly agarics ( particularly in the toadstool) has the ability to hit ( destroy) cells of the liver and other tissues of the body, which is accompanied by disruption of the functions of vital organs and systems. Without timely assistance, a person may die from cardiovascular or liver failure.
Belladonna berries. Belladonna berries also contain atropine and scopolamine. Poisoning with them has the same symptoms as henbane poisoning.
Wolfberry berries. Toxic substances of wolfberry ( meserine and daphnine) are found in all parts of the plant ( in fruits, roots, leaves). When eating the fruit, these toxins cause a burning sensation in the mouth. Then severe pain appears in the upper abdomen, nausea and vomiting, and in severe cases, convulsions occur.

Botulism toxin poisoning

The cause of the disease is a toxin produced by the microorganism Clostridium. Disputes ( inactive forms) of this pathogen can persist for a long time in soil, sludge, animal corpses, and so on. After entering the human body, clostridia themselves do not cause the development of infection, since they can reproduce only under anaerobic conditions ( that is, in the complete absence of oxygen). Infection with botulism toxin can occur through consumption of poorly processed canned food ( vegetable, meat), prepared at home. In this case, in a hermetically sealed jar, clostridia begin to actively multiply, releasing botulinum toxin into the environment, which is one of the most powerful poisons known to mankind.

After entering the human gastrointestinal tract, botulinum toxin is not destroyed by acidic gastric juice, as a result of which it is easily absorbed through the mucous membrane. Having entered the systemic bloodstream, this toxin reaches the tissues of the central nervous system and affects them, as a result of which characteristic clinical manifestations of the disease arise.

Botulinum toxin poisoning can manifest itself:

single vomiting and abdominal pain ( in the first hours after consuming the contaminated product);
breathing problems;
visual impairment;
increased blood pressure;
muscle weakness;
urinary disorders and so on.

Without timely assistance, a person may die due to breathing problems and the development of respiratory failure.

Mold poisoning

Molds are fungal microorganisms that can grow on the surface or inside of various foods. When eating foods contaminated with mold, fungi can enter the gastrointestinal tract and lead to symptoms of poisoning ( nausea, vomiting, diarrhea). This is due to the fact that many fungi secrete so-called mycotoxins, which have Negative influence on various body systems.

In addition, some molds have antibacterial activity, that is, they destroy various bacteria. Under normal conditions, the intestines of a healthy person contain many bacteria that take part in the digestive process. In case of mold poisoning, these bacteria can be destroyed, as a result of which the digestion process of food is disrupted or slowed down. It can also lead to bloating, diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain and other symptoms.

It is also worth noting that mold poisoning can also occur through the respiratory tract ( inhaling particles of pathogenic fungi - for example, with pulmonary aspergillosis). In this case, pathogenic fungi infect the lung tissue, as a result of which a frequent cough with the release of red bloody sputum may be observed ( hemoptysis), shortness of breath ( feeling of lack of air), increased body temperature, chest pain, and so on.

Vitamin poisoning

Vitamin poisoning can occur with frequent use in large doses. However, the clinical manifestations of the disease may vary ( depending on what vitamin the person was poisoned with).

Poisoning can occur with an overdose:

Vitamin A. Since this vitamin affects the organ of vision, one of the first signs of poisoning will be double vision. Nausea and vomiting may also occur due to the effect of the vitamin on the nervous system. Patients may complain of increased drowsiness, headache, and increased body temperature. Sometimes a skin rash may occur. After stopping the use of the vitamin, all the described symptoms disappear within 2 to 3 days. With chronic use of vitamin A in large doses, skin itching, hair loss, dryness and flaking of the skin may occur.
Vitamin D. Vitamin D poisoning can also be acute ( when taking a very large dose) or chronic ( when using increased doses for a long time). In acute poisoning, patients complain of general weakness, nausea and vomiting, headaches and dizziness. In severe cases, increased heart rate, increased body temperature, and convulsions may occur. With chronic vitamin D intoxication, there is a decrease in appetite, increased irritability, and indigestion ( nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation). If left untreated, irreversible damage to the cardiovascular, skeletal and other body systems may occur.
Vitamin C. Long-term use of this vitamin in large doses can cause damage to the central nervous system, which will be manifested by insomnia, increased body temperature and a feeling of heat, headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Dry skin and mucous membranes throughout the body may also occur.
Vitamin B1. Poisoning with this vitamin can cause a feeling of weakness or fatigue, insomnia, headaches, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, damage to internal organs may occur ( kidney, liver).
Vitamin B6. Chronic poisoning with this vitamin can be accompanied by damage to the peripheral nervous system, impaired sensitivity in the extremities, a tendency to develop seizures and loss of body weight.
Vitamin B12. The use of this vitamin in large doses can disrupt the functioning of the thyroid gland ( organ that produces hormones that regulate metabolism in the body). It was also noted that long-term chronic overdose can contribute to the development of malignant tumors.
Folic acid. An overdose of this vitamin is manifested by nausea and vomiting, increased nervous excitability and insomnia, and headaches. In severe cases, damage to the cardiovascular system and kidneys may occur.
Vitamin E. Chronic poisoning with this vitamin is manifested by headaches, general weakness and increased fatigue, nausea, and is also accompanied by a decrease in the body’s defenses ( the risk of developing microbial infections increases).

Protein poisoning

Eating large amounts of protein foods ( mainly meat) may be accompanied by an increase in the concentration of proteins in the blood. This can lead to disruption of the functioning of various organs and systems.

Protein poisoning can manifest itself:

Nausea or vomiting– protein foods inhibit peristalsis ( motor activity) gastrointestinal tract, which disrupts the digestion process.
Bloating– caused by impaired intestinal motility and the development of gas-forming microflora.
Insomnia– protein foods stimulate the central nervous system, and therefore there may be a disruption in the process of falling asleep, as well as increased nervous excitability or irritability.
Increased body temperature– this is also associated with stimulation of the central nervous system.
Darkening of urine– this is explained by the release of by-products of protein metabolism through the kidneys.

Water poisoning ( water poisoning)

Water poisoning ( overhydration), in fact, is not poisoning. This is a pathological condition of the body in which there is a violation of water and electrolyte metabolism. The reason for this may be severe vomiting, accompanied by loss of electrolytes ( if at the same time a person replenishes fluid loss with water that does not contain electrolytes), renal dysfunction ( in this case, the fluid is not removed from the body), excessive intravenous fluids, and so on. In addition, water poisoning can occur when drinking too much water over a short period of time. For example, drinking 2.5 - 3 liters of pure water within an hour can lead to overhydration, water-electrolyte imbalance and even death.

Table salt poisoning ( sodium)

From a chemical point of view, table salt is sodium chloride, that is, it contains the trace elements sodium and chlorine. When consuming large amounts of salt in a short period of time, a person may develop hypernatremia, a pathological condition accompanied by an increase in sodium concentration in the blood ( norm – 135 – 145 millimoles/liter). This can lead to disruption of the functioning of vital organs, as well as provoke the development of serious complications from the central nervous system.

One of the first symptoms of table salt poisoning is thirst ( desire to drink water). This is explained by the fact that the increased concentration of sodium in the blood is recorded by special sensitive cells at the level of the brain. To “dilute” the blood and reduce the concentration of sodium in it, the body needs to receive a large amount of fluid from the outside, as a result of which strong ( irresistible) thirst.

Other signs of table salt poisoning are:

general weakness;
disorientation in time and space;
loss of consciousness;
increased neuromuscular excitability;
wrinkling and dryness of the skin ( due to the release of fluid from cells into the vascular bed).

If left untreated, a person may die due to damage to blood vessels and brain tissue.

Poisoning from mineral fertilizers ( nitrates)

Nitrates are chemical substances (nitric acid salts), which are used as fertilizers. Nitrates can be found in large quantities in foods that have been processed with them during the growing process. When nitrates enter the human gastrointestinal tract, they turn into so-called nitrites - toxic substances that affect red blood cells, making it impossible for them to transport oxygen. At the same time, the person begins to suffer from oxygen starvation ( feeling tired, headaches, dizziness). In severe cases, death can occur.

Poisoning with rat poison

To combat rats and other small rodents, special toxic substances are used. After entering the body along with the bait ( food) these poisons disrupt the functioning of the vital organs of rodents, which leads to their death. It is worth noting that all of these poisons are, to one degree or another, toxic to humans if they enter the gastrointestinal tract.

A person can become poisoned:

Naphthylthiourea. If a person eats this poison, within a few minutes or hours he will experience severe vomiting, as a result of which part of the toxin will be removed from the gastrointestinal tract. If the toxin enters the systemic bloodstream in high concentrations, it can cause damage to the circulatory system, as well as the liver and lungs, which can lead to human death.
Ratindane. When taken orally, the active substance of this poison can be absorbed into the systemic bloodstream, where it disrupts the activity of the blood coagulation system ( which normally regulates bleeding control). Immediately after poisoning, the patient may experience nausea or vomiting once. After a few days, frequent nosebleeds, bleeding gums, prolonged bleeding after injuries, and so on may occur. In more severe cases, hemoptysis may occur ( bleeding from the lungs when coughing), as well as the appearance of blood in the stool and urine. If specific treatment is not started, after a few days a feeling of general fatigue and lethargy may appear, which is associated with chronic blood loss. Death can occur from a pronounced decrease in the concentration of red cells in the blood and oxygen starvation of the brain, as well as from damage to other vital organs ( liver, kidneys, central nervous system, respiratory system and so on).
Brodifacoum. This drug also interferes with the activity of the blood coagulation system. The signs of poisoning with it are similar to those of ratindane poisoning.

Alcohol poisoning ( ethyl alcohol, vodka, wine, beer, surrogates)

Poisoning with alcoholic beverages can occur when drinking them in large quantities, as well as when drinking low-quality alcoholic beverages. It is worth noting that active ( "intoxicating") the substance of all alcoholic drinks is ethyl alcohol ( ethanol). The rate of development of intoxication, as well as the severity of symptoms of poisoning, depends on its concentration. For example, the concentration of ethanol in vodka is 40%, while in beer it is up to 8–10%. It follows that symptoms of ethanol intoxication will occur faster when drinking large amounts of vodka than beer or other ( less strong) alcoholic drinks.

Ethyl alcohol poisoning can manifest itself:

Nausea and vomiting. These are natural protective reflexes, the purpose of which is to remove excess toxic substances from the body, as well as prevent its further entry.
Dizziness and confusion. This symptom is due to the effect of alcohol on brain cells.
Nervous excitement or drowsiness. In the initial stages of intoxication, alcohol stimulates the central nervous system ( CNS), in connection with which the patient may behave excitedly or aggressively, see hallucinations ( something that doesn't really exist) and so on. When the concentration of ethanol in the blood increases, the activity of the central nervous system is inhibited, resulting in drowsiness and lethargy. In severe cases, a person may fall into a coma, a life-threatening condition in which the patient does not respond to external stimuli.
Redness of the skin ( especially faces). Ethyl alcohol causes the superficial blood vessels to dilate, causing blood to rush to the skin, changing its color.
The presence of a specific alcoholic odor. Alcohol is partially excreted through the lungs ( in the form of vapors). The higher its concentration in the blood, the more pronounced the alcoholic odor from the patient’s mouth will be. This symptom will help distinguish alcoholic coma ( extreme depression of consciousness) from other diseases in which a person may also lose consciousness.
Breathing disorders. This may be due to damage to the central nervous system, as well as blockage of the airways by vomit ( if vomiting occurred while the person was unconscious).

It is worth noting that other chemicals can be used to achieve a state of intoxication ( Alcohol substitutes - ethylene glycol, butyl alcohol, colognes and cosmetic lotions, solvents, etc.). Surrogates are more toxic than regular alcoholic drinks, and therefore there are signs of poisoning and intoxication ( nausea, vomiting, damage to the liver, kidneys and other organs) develop much faster. For example, after drinking just 30 ml of butyl alcohol, a person can die.

Methyl alcohol poisoning

Methyl alcohol ( methanol) is used in chemical industry as a solvent and for other purposes. It also has a moderate intoxicating effect, but much less pronounced than ethyl alcohol. Eating methanol is strictly prohibited, since its metabolic products ( in particular formaldehyde and formic acid) are extremely toxic to the body. Accumulating in tissues and organs, they can cause damage to the central nervous system, organ of vision, liver and cardiovascular system, and in severe cases lead to the death of the patient. The lethal dose of methanol is 25 – 100 ml ( depending on the age and weight of the person).

Methyl alcohol poisoning manifests itself:

Nausea, vomiting, headaches and dizziness– the mechanism of occurrence of these symptoms is the same as in case of ethyl alcohol poisoning.
Paroxysmal abdominal pain– they are caused by the accumulation of by-products of methanol metabolism in the tissues of the gastrointestinal tract and a violation of the contractile activity of the stomach and intestines.
Visual impairment ( up to its complete loss) – the development of this symptom is also due to the toxic effect of formaldehyde and formic acid at the level of the optic nerve ( innervates the retina of the eye, which perceives light).
Loss of consciousness, convulsions and coma– develop as a result of severe intoxication of the body with formic acid, which can lead to the death of the patient within 24 hours.

Symptoms and signs of food poisoning and toxic infections

At the initial stages of the development of the disease, the symptoms and signs of all food poisoning are similar to each other. The entry of a toxic substance into the body triggers a series of protective reactions aimed at removing it from the body. At later stages of development, specific signs of poisoning may appear, depending on what toxin the patient consumed ( dysfunction of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, damage to the liver, kidneys, etc.).

Food poisoning can manifest itself:

nausea and vomiting;
diarrhea ( loose stools, diarrhea);
abdominal pain;
increased body temperature;
headaches;
dizziness;
intoxication of the body.

Nausea and vomiting

As stated earlier, nausea and vomiting are defense mechanisms, which should slow down the flow of toxic substances into the systemic circulation. Once a toxin or poison enters the gastrointestinal tract ( Gastrointestinal tract), it almost immediately begins to be absorbed through the gastric mucosa ( a little later through the intestinal mucosa). This leads to certain changes in the patient’s blood, triggering nervous and hormonal protective reactions.

Under normal conditions, peristalsis is activated after eating ( motor activity) gastrointestinal tract. This helps mix food with digestive juices and absorb nutrients. As soon as the body “realizes” that poisoning has occurred, gastrointestinal motility immediately stops. At the same time, food stops being absorbed, stagnates in the stomach and stretches it, which creates an unpleasant feeling of nausea. After this, so-called antiperistaltic waves appear, that is, contractions of the gastrointestinal tract muscles that push its contents in the opposite direction ( that is, from the small intestine to the stomach, and from the stomach through the esophagus to the oral cavity). This is how vomiting occurs, the purpose of which is to potentially remove dangerous products from the gastrointestinal tract, which will prevent further absorption of toxins.

Diarrhea ( loose stools, diarrhea)

Diarrhea can occur due to the activity of pathogenic microorganisms that have entered the gastrointestinal tract ( Gastrointestinal tract) together with any products. For example, when consuming salmonella-contaminated ( pathogenic microorganisms) food, the toxins they produce stimulate the release of salts and water into the intestinal lumen, which is manifested by massive watery diarrhea, which can be repeated several dozen times a day. At the same time, the body loses a large amount of fluid and electrolytes, which can pose a threat to the patient’s life.

In other cases, the development of diarrhea may not be associated with the infectious agent itself, but is a consequence of the development of a pathological process in the gastrointestinal tract. The fact is that after the onset of poisoning, the motility of the stomach and intestines slows down, as a result of which the digestion process is disrupted. Food from the small intestine and stomach can be removed from the gastrointestinal tract through vomiting, while the contents of the large intestine remain in it. Under normal conditions, a certain part of the water is absorbed through the mucous membrane of the final sections of the gastrointestinal tract ( that is, through the mucous membrane of the large intestine). However, due to slower peristalsis, the absorption process is also disrupted, as a result of which water and intestinal contents are released through the anus in the form of loose stools or diarrhea. Such diarrhea usually repeats 1-2 times and does not pose a threat to the patient’s life, since the loss of fluid and electrolytes is not as pronounced as in the first case.

Stomach ache ( stomach, intestines)

Pain syndrome during poisoning may be associated with damage to the mucous membrane of the stomach or intestines. The fact is that under normal conditions it is covered with a thin layer of mucus, which protects it from the traumatic effects of foods, as well as from acidic gastric juice. In case of poisoning, the process of secretion of this mucus is disrupted, which leads to damage to the gastric mucosa and its inflammation ( gastritis). As a result of this, the patient may feel sharp, paroxysmal pain in the upper abdomen, which occurs with a frequency of 1 to 2 times per minute and lasts from 5 to 20 seconds. The mechanism of pain in this case is due to peristaltic ( contractile) waves of muscles of the gastrointestinal tract ( Gastrointestinal tract). When these muscles contract, the nerve endings of the stomach wall are irritated, which is felt by the patient as a cutting, poorly localized pain ( the patient cannot indicate exactly where it hurts).

Nagging pain in the lower abdomen may be due to the transition of the infectious process to the large intestine, which will be accompanied by the appearance of diarrhea. Under normal conditions, the peristaltic wave is accompanied by a short-term ( for 3 – 5 seconds) muscle contraction, which helps push intestinal contents. As poisoning develops, this function is disrupted, resulting in intestinal muscle contractions becoming too long ( that is, the muscles remain in a contracted state for 10 – 20 or more seconds). The metabolism in them is disrupted, which is accompanied by the appearance of characteristic pain.

Increased body temperature

An increase in body temperature during poisoning is also a protective reaction of the body. The fact is that many pathogenic microorganisms and their toxins can exist only at a certain temperature, and when the ambient temperature rises, they die or are destroyed. That is why, in the process of evolution, the body developed this protective reaction - as soon as any foreign substance enters the systemic bloodstream, a whole series of biochemical processes are launched, the end result of which is an increase in body temperature.

With any food poisoning, body temperature will rise to at least 37 - 38 degrees during the first 6 - 12 hours after eating bad or contaminated food. If the body's defenses cope with the infection, the body temperature returns to normal within 24 hours. At the same time, it is worth noting that infection with some pathogenic microorganisms or toxins can be accompanied by an extremely pronounced increase in temperature ( up to 39 – 40 degrees or more).

Headache

Headache can accompany poisoning if toxic substances from the gastrointestinal tract enter the blood in large quantities. In this case, the body’s immune system is activated, the purpose of which is to find and destroy all foreign agents that have entered the systemic bloodstream. During the operation of this system, so-called biologically active substances are produced that fight foreign microorganisms and their toxins. However, these substances also have negative effects, in particular a vasodilating effect. When toxic substances enter the systemic circulation, as well as when exposed to biologically active substances, dilation of the blood vessels of the brain is observed, as a result of which some of the fluid from the bloodstream passes into the surrounding tissues. At the same time, the meningeal membrane of the brain, rich in sensory nerve endings, also stretches. All this leads to severe headaches, which can appear within the first day after the onset of poisoning and subside only after the patient’s condition normalizes ( that is, after the removal of foreign toxins and the subsidence of immune reactions).

It is worth noting that in case of alcohol poisoning, headache also occurs due to dilation of blood vessels and swelling of brain tissue. However, in this case, ethyl alcohol itself has a vasodilating effect ( found in alcoholic beverages), and the body's immune system is not involved in the pathological process.

Dehydration

Dehydration is a pathological condition characterized by the loss of large amounts of fluid by the body. The cause of dehydration in case of poisoning can be frequent vomiting or diarrhea, during which a large amount of fluid is removed from the body. Moreover, the development of dehydration can be facilitated by an increase in body temperature, since at the same time a person begins to sweat, and along with sweat, he also loses fluid.

Since it is not always possible to recover losses ( for example, if the patient starts vomiting again when taking liquid), already 4–6 hours after the onset of the disease, the patient may experience the first signs of dehydration. If treatment is not started in time, the body will continue to lose fluid and vital electrolytes ( chlorine, sodium and others), which over time can lead to dysfunction of vital organs or even death.

Dehydration of the body manifests itself:

Decreased elasticity and dry skin. Due to the fact that fluid leaves the skin, it becomes dry and less elastic, and loses its usual shine.
Dry mucous membranes. This symptom is clearly visible in the area of the mouth, tongue and lips ( the mucous membranes become dry and then become covered with characteristic crusts).
Pale skin. Due to a decrease in circulating blood volume, peripheral blood vessels “close” ( particularly in the skin), which allows you to maintain blood circulation in vital organs ( brain, heart, liver) at normal levels. Pale skin occurs due to the fact that the amount of blood in its vessels decreases.
Recession of the eyeballs. Under normal conditions, there is a layer of fatty tissue between the eyeball and the posterior wall of the orbit. It supports and stabilizes the eye, preventing damage due to injury. When dehydration occurs, fluid is also removed from adipose tissue, causing it to ( fatty tissue) becomes thinner, and the eyeballs shift deeper into the eye sockets.
Increased heart rate. With moderate or severe dehydration, circulating blood volume decreases. To compensate for losses and maintain blood supply to organs at a normal level, the heart has to pump blood at a higher speed.
Decreased amount of urine. As the amount of fluid in the body decreases, protective mechanisms are launched, the purpose of which is to prevent further water loss. One of these mechanisms is a decrease in the rate of urine production in the kidneys.

Dizziness

Dizziness may be one of the first symptoms of poisoning with certain plants and mushrooms, as well as with poisoning with alcoholic beverages or surrogates. The reason for the development of this symptom is the direct toxic effect exerted by toxic substances on the brain. At the same time, it is worth noting that dizziness can also occur with other poisonings, indicating their severe course. For example, with severe intoxication of the body, accompanied by dehydration ( loss of fluid) and a decrease in blood pressure, there may be a disruption in the blood supply to brain cells, which will be manifested by dizziness, darkening of the eyes, or even loss of consciousness.

Intoxication of the body

General intoxication syndrome is a complex of symptoms that develop in the body with any food poisoning ( regardless of its reason). The occurrence of this syndrome is due to the activation of the immune system and its fight against foreign agents. After all toxic substances are removed from the body, signs of general intoxication disappear ( simultaneously with the normalization of body temperature).

Intoxication of the body can manifest itself:

general weakness;
decreased ability to work;
slow thinking;
drowsiness;
chills ( feeling of coldness in the extremities);
increased heartbeat;
rapid breathing.

Symptoms of food poisoning in children

The mechanisms of development of food poisoning in children do not differ from those in adults. At the same time, it is worth remembering that in early childhood poisoning can develop faster and be more severe than in adults. This is due to the imperfection of the child’s body’s defenses and immune system, as well as its low compensatory capabilities. So, for example, after 2–4 attacks of vomiting or diarrhea, a child may develop dehydration, while this will not cause any serious problems in an adult. That is why it is extremely important to promptly identify the first signs and symptoms of poisoning and begin treatment measures without waiting for the baby’s condition to worsen and complications to develop.

Poisoning in a child can manifest itself:

Tearfulness- this is especially pronounced in young children who do not yet know how to express their feelings in words ( if a child is in pain or ill, he cries).
Increased physical activity– the child may be restless and excited.
Protective position in bed– in case of poisoning, children also experience abdominal pain, and therefore take the characteristic “embryo” pose ( knees and elbows are pressed to the stomach, and when trying to straighten or lift them, they begin to cry).
Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea– the reasons for the development of these symptoms are the same as for poisoning in adults.
Increased body temperature– the temperature reaction in children can be more pronounced, as a result of which from the first day the temperature can rise to 38 – 39 degrees.
Drowsiness and impaired consciousness– these signs occur with severe intoxication of the body and require immediate hospitalization.
Cramps ( seizures) – they can occur when the child’s body temperature rises above 40 degrees and are associated with impaired functioning of the nervous system.

Does blood pressure increase during poisoning?

Under normal conditions, blood pressure ( HELL) of a person is 120/80 millimeters mercury. Food poisoning itself does not cause an increase in blood pressure. At the initial stage of the disease, when the patient experiences severe vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain, his blood pressure may be slightly higher than normal. This is due to increased pressure in the abdominal cavity ( while vomiting), as well as activation of the body’s defense systems, one of the manifestations of which is the narrowing of blood vessels and increased blood pressure. After the vomiting subsides, the pressure usually returns to normal within an hour.

At the same time, it is worth noting that in case of severe poisoning ( that is, with the development of dehydration and other complications) there may be a drop in blood pressure below normal. This is extremely dangerous symptom, indicating the depletion of the body’s compensatory capabilities. This may interfere with the blood supply to vital organs ( primarily the brain), as a result of which the person may experience dizziness, lose consciousness, or even fall into a coma.

Can poisoning occur without fever?

Most poisonings are characterized by an increase in body temperature, but this symptom does not always occur. As mentioned earlier, an increase in temperature is a protective reaction of the body that develops when foreign microorganisms or their toxins enter the systemic bloodstream. However, in some poisonings, the toxic agent does not enter the systemic bloodstream, but exerts its pathogenic effect only at the level of the intestinal mucosa. In this case, the patient may experience some characteristic features poisoning ( nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain), but body temperature may remain normal or slightly rise ( up to 37 – 37.5 degrees).

Severity of poisoning ( mild, moderate, severe, fatal)

The severity of poisoning depends on the severity of damage to vital organs and systems that develops after the toxic substance enters the body.

Depending on the severity there are:

Mild poisoning. The disease does not cause dysfunction of vital organs. Treatments can be carried out at home.
Moderate poisoning. The general condition of the patient is disturbed, which is manifested by moderate disorders of the functions of vital organs ( increased breathing and heart rate, fluctuations in blood pressure, increased body temperature, and so on). Although the patient’s life is not in danger, it is recommended that such poisonings be treated in a hospital setting, since otherwise the patient’s general condition may worsen and complications may develop.
Severe poisoning. In this case, intoxication of the body leads to severe dysfunction of vital organs, which can be manifested by a drop in blood pressure, impaired consciousness, and lack of urine ( due to dehydration and impaired urinary function of the kidneys) and so on. Treatment of such patients should be carried out exclusively in a hospital, since otherwise there is a high risk of complications and death.
Extremely severe poisoning. In this case, the dysfunction of vital organs is so pronounced that in order to save a person’s life, he must be immediately hospitalized in the intensive care unit and specific treatment must begin. Otherwise, death is inevitable.
Poisoning with fatal outcome. In this case, poisoning with any substances leads to the death of the patient, despite all the efforts of doctors ( if any occurred, that is, if the patient managed to be hospitalized