About Us | Privacy | Site Map
February 9, 2012
Font Size
A
A
A

Poisoning (cont.)

Medical Author:
Medical Editor:

Next Steps

Outlook

The key to a good outcome is rapid recognition that a poisoning has occurred and rapid transport to a qualified medical facility when indicated.

  • When medical care (and use of the U.S. National Poison Control Center-1-800-222-1222) is provided promptly, the vast majority of people survive poisonings.
  • Poor outcomes can occur when these are the cause of the poisoning:

    • Highly toxic substances such as cyanide

    • Substances that injure body tissues immediately (lye or acids, for example)

    • Poisoning as a result of exposure over time, often unrecognized (examples include polluted water, workplace exposures, and lead)

Viewer Comments & Reviews

Poisoning - Experience

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

What was your experience with poisoning?

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.




Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Food Poisoning »

Food poisoning is defined as an illness caused by the consumption of food or water contaminated with bacteria and/or their toxins, parasites, viruses, or chemicals.

Read More on Medscape Reference »

Medical Dictionary


Use Pill Finder Find it Now

Pill Identifier on RxList

  • quick,
    easy,
    pill identification

Find a Local Pharmacy

  • including
    24 hour
    pharmacies