Eating raw meat and poultry is risky since food may be contaminated with harmful bacteria (including Campylobacter, E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella) or parasites. Symptoms and onset depend on the organism. Gastrointestinal symptoms are common with most of these organisms although less common with Listeria. Using a meat thermometer to ensure that meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature is recommended.
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Ice packs are common household items; some are intended for single-use only, while others are intended to be reused many times. Typically, unintentionally swallowing some of their liquid contents usually causes minor effects such as mouth irritation. However, depending on the ingredients and the amount swallowed, ice packs do have the potential to cause toxicity.
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Fire extinguishers, when used properly, are generally safe. However, there is some risk for mild respiratory, skin, or eye irritation. The use of a fire extinguisher in areas with poor air flow, or intentional inhalation of fire extinguishers, can produce serious toxicity that would require medical evaluation.
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Milkweed grows throughout the US and is essential for the survival of monarch butterflies. All parts of the plant contain toxic cardiac glycosides, which can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and heart rhythm changes. Milkweed can also irritate the skin and eyes if touched.
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A common medication error is taking—or giving—a double dose. For some medicines, a double dose can cause significant problems. Examples include medicines for high blood pressure, ADHD, depression, and diabetes.
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Organic arsenic is less toxic than inorganic arsenic. Inorganic arsenic contaminates groundwater. Vomiting, neurological, and cardiac toxicity, anemia and rashes occur with acute toxicity. Chronic toxicity is associated with gastrointestinal symptoms, anemia, decreased white cells, peripheral neuropathy, liver damage, and vascular insufficiency. Arsenic is a human carcinogen.
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Adderall is a combination of 2 central nervous stimulants: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Its main use is the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In overdose, it can cause serious central nervous system and cardiovascular effects.
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Even when hair dyes are used correctly, they can cause toxicity. Skin damage and allergic reactions are well documented. Eye exposure can cause a range of toxicities from mild irritation to loss of vision. Unintentional swallowing can cause irritation or injury to the mouth and stomach as well as life-threatening allergic reactions.
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Abrus precatorius seeds (also known as rosary peas or jequirity beans) are distinctive-looking red seeds with a black spot that are occasionally used in jewelry and toys from foreign sources. The entire plant is toxic, and the seeds are highly toxic to humans.
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Lidocaine, a local anesthetic, works by causing a temporary numbing effect. When used sparingly and as directed, topical lidocaine is generally safe. Misuse or overuse can cause serious problems and even death.
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Magic mushrooms contain psilocybin and psilocin, which cause hallucinations, euphoria, altered time and space perception, intensified emotions and spiritual experiences. An overdose is unlikely but adverse effects of usual doses include panic reactions, psychosis, flashbacks, recurring visual disturbances, and drug interactions related to the neurotransmitter serotonin.
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SNRIs are a class of antidepressants. A rare but potentially very serious side effect of SNRIs is serotonin syndrome, which can occur when SNRIs are taken with other drugs. Like all antidepressants, SNRIs should not be abruptly stopped. Careful tapering of the dosage can minimize the risk of withdrawal symptoms.
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Over-the-counter anti-redness eyedrops are used to treat irritated, red eyes. When consumed by mouth, they can result in serious toxicity and even death.
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Methylene blue is the antidote for a serious condition called methemoglobinemia but has also been studied for other medical uses. Since it has significant side effects and can interact with many medications, the routine use of methylene blue should be avoided.
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Soapmaking is a popular home activity, but potentially hazardous chemicals can be involved. Use of pre-made soap bases (“melt and pour” products) is a safer way to make homemade soap.
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Nail polish remover is usually acetone, which can cause skin irritation and brittle nails. Acetone can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and by ingestion. Swallowing acetone can cause irritation, vomiting, depression, seizures, increased heart rate, decreased blood pressure, acidosis, and other metabolic effects. Nail glue remover is usually an oil that has low toxicity.
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Alcohol can be a dangerous poison for children. Alcohol depresses the central nervous system and causes low blood sugar. Children who drink alcohol can have seizures and coma; they could even die. This is true of beverage alcohol (such as beer, wine, and liquor) and alcohol found in mouthwash and other personal care or household products.
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Melioidosis is a serious infection caused by the bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei. Humans can be exposed to the bacteria through contact with contaminated water or soil in tropical countries. In 2021, an outbreak of melioidosis occurred in the US due to contaminated aromatherapy spray.
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Protein bars often contain compounds called sugar alcohols, which are lower in calories than traditional sugars. Sugar alcohols are associated with multiple gastrointestinal side effects including abdominal pain, bloating, and gas.
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Black plastic is commonly used in a variety of household products, including kitchenware, food containers, and toys. There has been concern that traces of flame-retardant chemicals have been found in these items. At this time, it is unclear if routine use of black plastic products poses a health risk.
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Eucalyptus oil’s medical uses include treatment of respiratory and skin conditions and for pain. It is usually inhaled or applied to the skin in a diluted form. Pure eucalyptus oil can cause irritation and burning of the mouth, digestive tract, skin, and eyes. Eucalyptus oil should never be swallowed, and even a small dose can cause seizures, coma, and death.
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Some drywall (gypsum board) imported in the early 2000s can emit sulfurous gases, resulting in damage to copper wiring and pipes, as well as some human health effects. When wet, drywall can be affected by mold.
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Bupropion is a medication that is most often prescribed to treat depression or to help people quit smoking. It is generally safe at recommended doses, but there can be serious side effects, including seizures.
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Poppers are recreational drugs containing alkyl nitrites. They are used for muscle relaxation and sexual enhancement, but using them can cause low oxygen levels, difficulty breathing, and feeling faint. In severe or untreated cases, death can occur.
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