Poisoning by salicylates, accidental (unintentional) Save
ICD-10 code: T39.091
Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes
What is Poisoning by Salicylates?
Salicylates are a type of chemical found in many over-the-counter medications, such as aspirin, as well as various foods and beverages. While they can be helpful in treating a number of ailments, they can also be dangerous if ingested in too high a quantity. Accidental salicylate poisoning occurs when someone unintentionally ingests too much of the chemical, either through medication or food.
Causes of Poisoning by Salicylates
Salicylate poisoning can occur in a number of different ways. One of the most common causes is accidental ingestion of too much aspirin or other salicylate-containing medication. This can happen if someone takes more than the recommended dose, or if a child gets into a bottle of pills and ingests a large quantity.
Salicylate poisoning can also occur through ingestion of foods or beverages containing high levels of salicylates. This can happen if someone consumes large quantities of foods like berries, nuts, or certain spices, or drinks like wine or beer.
Symptoms of Poisoning by Salicylates
The symptoms of salicylate poisoning can vary depending on the severity of the overdose and the age and health of the person affected. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Ringing in the ears
- Confusion
- Seizures
In severe cases, salicylate poisoning can be life-threatening. It's important to seek medical attention right away if you suspect someone has ingested too much salicylate.
Treatment for Poisoning by Salicylates
If someone has ingested too much salicylate, the first step in treatment is to remove any remaining medication or food from their stomach. This may involve inducing vomiting or using activated charcoal to absorb any remaining toxins.
In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary. In severe cases, treatment may involve hemodialysis to remove the salicylate from the bloodstream.
Preventing Poisoning by Salicylates
The best way to prevent accidental salicylate poisoning is to use medications containing salicylates only as directed, and to keep them out of reach of children. It's also important to be aware of the salicylate content of foods and beverages, and to avoid consuming large quantities of them if you are sensitive to salicylates.
If you suspect that you or someone else has ingested too much salicylate, seek medical attention right away. Early