Arsenic poisoning can occur from handling products or ingesting foods with high levels of arsenic. Symptoms range from mild headaches to death. Tests can detect arsenic in the body, and medications can clear it. Protective measures should be taken to avoid exposure, and immediate medical attention is necessary if poisoning is suspected.
Arsenic poisoning is accidental or intentional exposure to arsenic in some form. In many cases, poisoning occurs by handling products containing high doses of arsenic without adequate protection or by ingesting foods or liquids containing unhealthy doses of arsenic. The range of symptoms with arsenic poisoning can range from mild headaches to death, depending on the extent of exposure to the toxic chemical.
While many people tend to think in terms of arsenic poisoning occurring from someone intentionally mixing the product into food or drink, it is possible to experience contact poisoning with substances that have not been handled by anyone. For example, some types of lumber products once used arsenic as a preservative. Anyone sawing lumber treated in this manner could become poisoned over time from exposure to airborne chips and sawdust that result from the sawing activity. Similarly, raw water sources can contain amounts of arsenic that would build up in the system over time and start causing problems.
In the early stages, arsenic poisoning often begins with a feeling of general lethargy accompanied by mild headaches. Over time, the headache and lack of energy become more pronounced. Abdominal pain may also begin to develop. Left untreated, the presence of arsenic in the system will begin to interfere with the body’s natural function and lead to organ failure and eventually death.
Fortunately, there are a variety of tests that can detect the presence of arsenic in the body. Various tests require samples of hair, blood, nails and urine. Urine tests can detect the presence of arsenic exposure within the past two days, while hair and nail tests can be used to create an accurate record of arsenic accumulation in the body up to the past twelve months. Depending on the level of arsenic present, various medications may be given to begin clearing the chemical from the body and minimize the risk of long-term health problems related to poisoning.
Avoiding arsenic poisoning usually means wearing gloves and protective clothing when handling arsenic-containing products. Working with older lumber requires wearing a face mask to minimize the possible chances of contamination. It’s also a good idea not to drink water from suspicious sources.
If an individual suspects that they have developed arsenic poisoning for any reason, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention. The testing process can return results quickly, making it possible to begin treatment before any further damage can be done to the body or its systems.
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