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Toxic squash syndrome is caused by eating gourds that contain high levels of cucurbitacin. These squashes look and smell normal but taste very bitter. Symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, which can lead to dehydration, low blood pressure, fast heart rate, headache, and dizziness. Treatment includes taking oral or intravenous fluids.
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The spotted lanternfly is an insect species native to parts of China and Vietnam. The insect itself does not bite or sting. It is not known to be toxic to humans but could cause upset stomach if ingested. Potential side effects of ingesting small amounts of spotted lanternflies are nausea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These symptoms are self-limited and do not typically require treatment.
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Just because something is "natural", it isn't necessarily safe to casually eat or use. Originally, all remedies came from nature. Yew is an example of a plant with medicinal value that can be poisonous if eaten.
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Sets of tiny, strong magnets are sold as stress or fidget toys intended for adults but often are swallowed by children, resulting in serious injury and even death. The magnets, or a magnet and another metal object, can stick to each other, even through folds of gastrointestinal tissue. This pinches off blood supply to the area, causing tissue death, bleeding, and infection.
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There are two main types of artificial snow: powders that are mixed with water and spray-on aerosols. In most small exposures, neither product type is likely to cause severe problems, but swallowing the powder or spraying the aerosol directly onto the skin or into the eyes can cause symptoms.
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There are special poisoning concerns during the winter: family travel, family gatherings, carbon monoxide poisoning, and winter chemicals for the car.
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Bemotrizinol is a new chemical sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. It is not absorbed into the body, rarely causes skin irritation, is photostable and does not degrade in sunlight, and is transparent so it does not leave a white color on the skin. Allergic reactions are possible. The brand name is Parsol Shield. It is approved for adults and children 6 months of age and older.
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The weather is perfect for a cookout or picnic. Family and friends gather. And the kids are getting into things like they always do. Spending a little time to think through outdoor activities can keep poisons from spoiling your fun, for adults and children alike.
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When used responsibly, fireworks are a fun way to celebrate with friends and family. Unfortunately, serious injuries, poisonings, and fatalities can occur when they are mishandled, unintentionally swallowed, or when they malfunction. For this reason, it is extremely important to understand the risks and follow safety guidelines when handling them.
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Many medicines look like something good to eat or drink. Pay attention to what you put into your mouth!
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Halloween treats are great. Tricks are not! Go with your children when they trick-or-treat. Look at the goodies before they're eaten. Rinse liquid from glow sticks out of eyes if it's splashed. Drink some water if it's swallowed. And, stick to actual cosmetics meant for the skin when making up.
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A glow stick is a plastic tube containing two reactive chemicals, which combine when the tube is bent, resulting in a luminescent glow. Glow sticks are not poisonous. If swallowed, mouth irritation and an upset stomach may occur. The liquid can also cause skin and eye irritation. If the glow stick breaks and the liquid leaks into your mouth, eyes, or skin, rinse with water.
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