Insecticide poisoning
Alternate Names : Organophosphate poisoning, Carbamate poisoning
Definition
Insecticide is a chemical that kills bugs. Insecticide poisoning occurs when someone swallows or breathes in this substance. This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. See also:
Poisonous Ingredient
Most household bug sprays contain chemicals called pyrethrins. These chemicals are generally not harmful, but can cause life-threatening breathing problems if breathed in. Industrial insecticides, often found in household garages and greenhouses, contain many dangerous substances, including:
- Carbamates
- Organophosphates
- Paradichlorobenzenes (mothballs)
Where Found
Various insecticides (bug killers)
Symptoms & Signs
Symptoms of pyrethrin poisoning: - Lungs and airways
- Nervous system
- Skin
- Irritation
- Redness or swelling
Symptoms of organophosphate or carbamate poisoning: - Bladder and kidneys
- Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
- Gastrointestinal
- Abdominal cramps
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Heart and blood
- Lungs and airways
- Nervous system
- Skin
Note: Serious poisoning can occur from just touching the organophosphate without gloves or without washing hands soon after exposure. Large amounts of the chemical soak through the skin unless you are protected. Life-threatening paralysis and death can occur very quickly. Symptoms of paradichlorobenzene poisoning: - Gastrointestinal
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Muscles
Note: Paradichlorobenzene mothballs are not very toxic. They have replaced the more toxic camphor and naphthalene types.
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