Name(s):
Poisoning by solids and liquids
Nature
Accidental poisonings, suicide, and homicidal poisonings result largely from toxic substances being readily available at work and at home. Poisoning also occurs from over-use of otherwise harmless substances. Poisons vary according to their source, [eg] animal, plant or mineral, and according to their chemical composition. They can also be corrosives, irritants, or narcotics. Corrosive poisons produce immediate pain and swelling of lips, mouth and throat; death is rapid if the dose is large. Irritant poisonings produce vomiting, purging and abdominal pain. Narcotics produce giddiness, headache, interference with sight, and stupor preceded occasionally by convulsions. Narcotic-irritants produce at first symptoms of irritant poisons; later, delirium or convulsions. All poisonings can and often do end in death.