Management of Common Poisoning, Insecticide Toxicity, and Treatment of Stings and Bites

Diagnosis and Treatment of Heavy Metal Poisoning

Heavy metal poisoning occurs due to the accumulation of toxic metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium in the body. The exposure can be acute or chronic and often results from contaminated water, food, industrial exposure, or medications.

Common Heavy Metals and Their Effects

• Lead: Causes neurological impairments, anemia, and renal dysfunction.
• Mercury: Affects the central nervous system, leading to tremors, memory loss, and cognitive decline.
• Arsenic: Leads to cardiovascular complications, skin lesions, and increased risk of cancer.
• Cadmium: Contributes to kidney damage and bone demineralization.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is conducted through:

• Blood and urine tests to measure metal concentration.
• Clinical examination for symptoms like fatigue, nausea, and neurological deficits.
• Hair and tissue analysis for chronic exposure assessments.

Treatment

Treatment involves:

• Chelation Therapy: Using agents like Dimercaprol, EDTA, and Penicillamine to bind and eliminate heavy metals.
• Symptomatic Management: Treating specific symptoms such as seizures or anemia.
• Preventive Measures: Reducing exposure sources and adopting protective equipment in high-risk areas.

Preventing Heavy Metal Poisoning

Steps to minimize risk include:

• Using water filters to remove metal contaminants.
• Consuming organic produce to avoid pesticide-laden foods.
• Routine environmental assessments in workplaces with metal exposure.