In general, when we talk about insecticides, we refer to the mosquito repellents commonly used in daily life, as well as the agricultural insecticides. Therefore, there are different degrees of toxicity in insecticides. Typically, the symptoms of mild poisoning from most insecticides are mild, while the symptoms of agricultural insecticide poisoning are more severe. They can be classified into the following categories:
Mild Symptoms:
Although most mosquito repellents have been tested and approved by relevant departments, their toxicity is within a safe range for human beings. However, long-term and excessive inhalation of these repellents can still cause mild poisoning symptoms, such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, irritability, and occasional muscle twitching. These symptoms mainly affect the central nervous system and the digestive system.
Moderate Symptoms:
Long-term inhalation of mosquito repellents or inhalation of small amounts of agricultural insecticides can lead to moderate poisoning symptoms. These symptoms mainly include excessive sweating, drooling, tremors, seizures, exaggerated tendon reflexes, tachycardia, cyanosis, and elevated body temperature.
Severe Symptoms:
Severe poisoning symptoms often occur in individuals who have ingested agricultural insecticides. The main manifestations include epileptic-like seizures or tonic-clonic seizures, occasional coma and respiratory failure after intense and repeated seizures, and even death. After repeated seizures, patients may experience mental changes (such as forgetfulness and loss of orientation) or ataxia. Severe patients may also experience hypotension, tachycardia, arrhythmias, and even ventricular fibrillation. Acute liver and kidney damage may also occur.
What to Do for Mild Poisoning:
For adults experiencing mild poisoning symptoms, it is important to avoid further contact with insecticides. In general, mild poisoning symptoms can resolve on their own within a few days after avoiding contact with the insecticides. However, if the symptoms worsen, immediate medical treatment is necessary.
What to Do for Severe Poisoning:
If a patient experiences severe poisoning (especially children), the following three emergency steps can be taken:
1. The patient can be given a large amount of water to induce vomiting and any residual substance in the mouth can be removed using gauze.
2. If the patient has ingested strong acids, insecticides, bleach, or any unknown liquid, do not induce vomiting or drink water. Immediate medical attention should be sought.
3. When seeking medical help, bring the substance that caused the poisoning to the hospital for examination.
