Eucalyptus oil overdose

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Eucalyptus oil overdose

Definition:

Poisoning from an overdose of eucalyptus oil.

Poisonous Ingredient:

eucalyptus oil

Where Found:

some rubs and liniments
some diaper rash medication
as an inhalant for treatment of nasal congestion
some medication for sore gums/mouths/throat
some mouthwashes

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms:

body as a whole
respiratory
- shallow breathing
- may also be rapid
eyes, ears, nose, and throat
- difficulty swallowing
- burning sensation in mouth
- pinpoint pupils
skin
- irritation if exposed
gastrointestinal
heart and blood vessels
- rapid, weak heartbeat
nervous system
- unconsciousness
- dizziness
- seizures
- slurred speech

Home Treatment:

Call the Poison Control center for guidance. DO NOT INDUCE EMESIS (VOMITING) UNLESS INSTRUCTED TO DO SO.

Wash exposed skin with soap and water.

Before Calling Emergency:

Determine the following information:

the patient's age, weight, and condition
the name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
the time it was swallowed
the amount swallowed

Poison Control, or a local emergency number:

They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room:

Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

Activated charcoal
Give other fluids, with the amount being determined by kidney function.
Treat the symptoms.

Expectations (prognosis):

Survival past 48 hours is usually a good sign that recovery will occur. If any damage to the kidneys has occurred, it may take several months to heal. Drowsiness may persist for several days.

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