Iron is necessary for the body, but too much can lead to an overdose with symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal to heart problems and a blue tint to the skin. Over-the-counter supplements make it easily accessible, but an overdose can be fatal and affect the liver and other systems. Symptoms can be difficult to diagnose initially, but seeking medical attention is crucial. Children are especially vulnerable. Even with treatment, lasting scars can occur.
The body needs iron to efficiently carry oxygen through the bloodstream, but too much iron can lead to an iron overdose. The signs that there is too much iron in the body are wide and varied, from heart and gastrointestinal system symptoms to a blue tint to the skin. Depending on the individual and the amount of iron ingested, symptoms can be mild or severe.
Iron is available through over-the-counter supplements, making it an easily accessible nutrient. While it might not seem like such a readily available substance would bother the body, an iron overdose can result in a variety of symptoms. Depending on the individual and the amount taken, overdose can affect the cardiac, gastrointestinal, nervous and respiratory systems, as well as have a visible impact on the skin.
The first symptoms to develop are usually those in the gastrointestinal system, commonly occurring within about six hours of iron consumption. These include abdominal pain and other types of discomfort, such as vomiting and diarrhea, with the possibility of blood in the body’s secretions and a metallic taste to the vomit. Since these are common symptoms of the disease, it can be difficult to diagnose an iron overdose initially. In large quantities, iron is a poison, and these signs are the first signs of slow poisoning of the body.
Depending on the dosage that has been consumed, other symptoms may also occur within hours of iron overdose. Fatigue and heart problems, such as an irregular heartbeat, can occur, and in some cases, a marked drop in blood pressure can also occur. High amounts of iron will begin to affect the liver, resulting in jaundice and liver failure between 12 hours and two days of overdose. During this time, an individual may also be vulnerable to seizures. The skin often becomes pale, while the nails and lips may take on a blue hue.
After two days, the iron started poisoning other cells. It is during this time that death can occur and it is vitally important that you get medical attention well in advance of this time. Without treatment to rid the body of high amounts of iron, an individual can go into severe shock and suffer from advanced liver failure, as well as mental distress, such as confusion; seizures and dizziness are also possible symptoms.
Lethality depends on the dosage of iron that has been consumed and how quickly treatment is received. It is one of the most dangerous poisons for children due to their low body weight. Even after hospitalization and treatment, an iron overdose can leave lasting scars particularly on the gastrointestinal system. A person’s general health and the existence of other conditions can affect the overall prognosis.
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