First Aid & Emergencies
Poisoning - Emergencies
Step One
Step Two
Do you have any of the following symptoms that require emergency treatment? Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.
- Known poisoning with any symptoms
- Loss of consciousness
- A change in level of consciousness, such as sudden sleepiness, confusion, or decreased alertness
- Extreme anxiousness, nervousness, irritability, or tremors
- A seizure
- Chest discomfort or pain with symptoms of a heart attack
- Signs of shock
- Any symptoms of trouble breathing
- Symptoms of damage to the mucous membranes or burns in the mouth or throat
- If the person becomes unconscious, see the topic Dealing With Emergencies. Be sure to tell emergency personnel what first aid measures have been tried.
- Call your local poison control center or the National Poison Control Hotline (1-800-222-1222 ). Have the poison container with you so you can give complete information to the poison control center, such as what the poison or substance is, how much was taken and when. Do not try to cause vomiting. However, if your poison control center recommends vomiting for a specific substance, follow their guidelines.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
October 05, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.
Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this
information.
© 1995-2010 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
Poisoning Topics
Today in First Aid
WebMD the app
Get first aid information. Whenever. Wherever... with your iPhone, iPad or Android.
Find Out More