Organophosphate poisoning is caused by exposure to chemicals found in insecticides, herbicides, and nerve agents. Symptoms include diarrhea, excessive salivation, and respiratory arrest. Atropine can counteract the poisoning, and patients may need fluids and ventilator support. Proper protective clothing can reduce the risk of exposure.
Organophosphate poisoning is a neurological syndrome caused by exposure to organophosphate chemicals such as those found in insecticides, herbicides, and some nerve agents. Patients exposed to large amounts of these chemicals can develop a variety of symptoms and can eventually die of respiratory arrest. Low levels of organophosphate exposure can cause behavioral changes including depression and suicidal thoughts. It is a potential occupational hazard for people working around these chemical compounds. Treatments are available if the condition is identified in a timely manner.
These compounds function as nerve agents by inhibiting the action of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that normally breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. When this enzyme is suppressed, acetylcholine levels build up, stimulating the receptors and causing a patient’s nervous system to overload. Atropine can counteract organophosphate poisoning and stabilize the patient, allowing health care providers to offer supportive care while the patient recovers.
Symptoms of organophosphate poisoning can include diarrhea and uncontrolled urination along with excessive salivation and tears. A patient may develop stomach cramps and pain caused by increased gastrointestinal motility, and may experience nausea and vomiting. The patient’s pupils also tend to constrict, and the same constriction can be seen in the airways and other body structures. Eventually, the bronchoconstriction will cause the patient to die due to inadequate oxygen supplies.
It can be difficult to test for organophosphate poisoning directly. Tiny traces may appear in the blood, but since patients normally have widely varying ranges of compounds such as acetylcholinesterase, this test may not necessarily be conclusive. Patients seeking treatment for symptoms associated with organophosphate poisoning should be sure to discuss any recent exposures to chemicals, including lubricants, fuels, and other compounds. The doctor can determine if the patient is at risk of poisoning.
In addition to atropine, a doctor or medical professional may recommend stripping the patient of their clothes and washing them thoroughly to remove any organophosphates left after exposure. Farm workers, for example, could have chemicals stuck to their clothes, hair and skin after handling sprayers without protection. Flushing can often disrupt the flow of organophosphates into the patient’s system. Patients may also need fluids to rehydrate and may require ventilator support until their airways relax and they are able to breathe on their own. The chances of a repeat occurrence can be reduced by properly securing chemicals and providing workers with adequate protective clothing when working with chemicals.
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