Aspirin Poisoning Symptoms

The earliest symptoms of acute aspirin poisoning may include ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and impaired hearing. More clinically significant signs and symptoms include rapid breathing (hyperventilation), vomiting, dehydration, fever, double vision, and feeling faint.

Later signs of aspirin poisoning, or signs of more significant poisoning, include drowsiness or confusion, bizarre behavior, unsteady walking, and coma.

The abnormal breathing caused by aspirin poisoning is usually rapid and deep. Vomiting may occur 3-8 hours after taking too much aspirin. Serious dehydration may occur from hyperventilation, vomiting, and fever.

Aspirin poisoning signs and symptoms can range from minor to severe.

• Mild to moderate: Deep and rapid breathing (hyperpnea) sometimes with lethargy (abnormal drowsiness)

• Moderate: Severe deep and rapid breathing, prominent nervous system disturbances, such as marked lethargy or excitability, but no coma or convulsions

• Severe: Severe deep and rapid breathing, coma, sometimes with convulsions