acute nicotine poisoning


acute nicotine poisoning

Poisoning resulting from nicotine exposure, causing excessive stimulation of the autonomic nervous system. Usually nicotine poisoning occurs when young children accidentally consume nicotine chewing gum or patches found in the home.

Symptoms

Nausea, salivation, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, dizziness, and mental confusion. If the dose is sufficient, the patient will collapse, develop shock, convulse, and die of respiratory failure caused by paralysis of respiratory muscles.

Treatment

Activated charcoal may be given to conscious patients who are not vomiting. Unconscious patients should be intubated and supported in an intensive care unit. Anticonvulsants are used to treat seizures.

See also: poisoning