Arsenic poisoning, as an act of crime or suicide, is now rare because the compound is difficult to access. People who have professional contact with this substance are mainly exposed to the toxic effects of arsenic. It is in them that the symptoms of arsenic poisoning are most often observed. How is their treatment then?

Arsenic poisoningis a condition caused by ingestion, absorption (through the skin, hair or nails) or inhalation of arsenic compounds in an amount that is dangerous to your he alth. Arsenic poisoning as a targeted activity is very rare nowadays. People who have professional contact with this substance are mainly exposed to the toxic effects of arsenic. Currently, it is used in chemical laboratories, glass industry, metallurgy, as well as in dentistry as a drug for devitalization, i.e. tooth poisoning.

Arsenic poisoning - symptoms

Acute arsenic poisoningcauses the administration of 70-200 mg of the substance. Then the following appear:

  • headaches
  • desire
  • garlic-scented breath
  • metallic taste in the mouth
  • excess saliva in the mouth
  • excessive sweating
  • nausea and vomiting
  • watery and profuse diarrhea
  • hematuria
  • muscle damage and spasm
  • shock
  • loss of consciousness

When medical aid is not provided immediately, death occurs within a few to several hours.

Regular arsenic poisoning in smaller, toxic doses (10-50 mg / day) leads to skin changes (hyperkeratosis of the hands and feet and skin darkening), abdominal and muscle pain, hair loss, inflammation of the mucous membranes of the eyes and nose .Chronic arsenic poisoningalso produces the characteristic streaked nails (Mees bands).

Arsenic poisoning - first aid and treatment

First aid for arsenic poisoning is limited to calling for medical attention, and the treatment is similar to treating mercury poisoning. The doctor usually makes the decision to lavage the stomach and administer drugs (mainly smoked magnesia) that bind arsenic and prevent it from further toxic effects.

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Arsenic cancause cancer

People who are professionally exposed to arsenic are up to 8 times more likely to develop cancer, especially of the skin, lungs and paranasal sinuses, than other people. Between the carcinogenic effect of arsenic and the development of cancer, the so-called work, the disease often has a long latency, and cancer can develop many years after contact with arsenic is stopped.

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