Strychnine poisoning

Strychnine poisoning: causes, symptoms and treatment

Strychnine is a poison that can cause one of the most severe poisonings, accompanied by vomiting, terrible pain in the stomach, general severe convulsions and even blindness. In this article we will look at the causes of Strychnine poisoning, its symptoms and treatment.

Causes of Strychnine poisoning

Strychnine is a poison that is commonly used medicinally to treat certain conditions such as spasms and epilepsy. However, in some cases it can be used as a poison. For example, Strychnine can be used to commit suicide or kill another person. In some countries it is also used to poison animals.

Symptoms of Strychnine poisoning

Symptoms of Strychnine poisoning usually begin to appear within a few minutes of consuming the poison. These may include the following:

1. Pain in the pit of the stomach
2. Vomit
3. Convulsions
4. Anxiety
5. Rapid pulse
6. Oxygen starvation
7. Loss of consciousness
8. Blindness

These symptoms can develop very quickly and the poisoned person needs immediate medical attention.

Treatment of Strychnine poisoning

If you suspect Strychnine poisoning, call an ambulance immediately. It is important to begin treatment as quickly as possible to stop the progression of symptoms and prevent complications.

At home, you can give the victim a strong laxative, which you can get at the pharmacy. If possible, copper sulfate 0.2 in a tablespoon of water - this can help bind Strychnine so that it cannot continue to act in the body. Also give the victim a glass of water with a tablespoon of purified charcoal in it. Charcoal can help bind the poison and speed up its elimination from the body.

In hospital, treatment for Strychnine poisoning may involve administering an antidote, which binds and removes the poison from the body. Other measures such as mechanical ventilation, intubation and oxygen therapy may also be required.

Finally

Strychnine poisoning is a very dangerous condition that requires immediate medical attention. If you suspect Strychnine poisoning, immediately call an ambulance and begin providing first aid to the victim. It is important to remember that the sooner treatment begins, the greater the chance of full restoration of the victim’s health.