Poisoning

Poisoning is potentially life-threatening, and in most cases of poisoning in the UK, the person has swallowed a toxic substance such as bleach, taken an overdose of prescription medicine, or eaten wild plants or fungi. Alcohol poisoning can cause similar symptoms. If you believe that someone has swallowed a poisonous substance, call 999. The effects of poisoning are dependent on the substance swallowed but can include:u00a0 (click the hotspots)

You should try to find out what was swallowed so you can tell the paramedic or doctor. Do not give the person anything to eat or drink unless directed by a healthcare professional. Do not try to cause vomiting. Stay with the person as they may deteriorate or become unconscious. You should not perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation as the victimu2019s mouth or airway may be contaminated with poison.