Iron Poisoning
Medical Questions » Illnesses » Iron Poisoning
| Name: Iron Poisoning |
| Also known as: |
| Taking excessive amounts of iron into the body, either deliberately or accidentally. |
Causes of Iron Poisoning
Found in tablets used to treat iron deficiency states and anemia, many tonics and anti-vomiting drugs. 2000 mg of iron taken at once is sufficient to cause iron poisoning in an adult, but lesser amounts can be very serious in a child. |
Symptoms of Iron Poisoning
Vomiting, diarrhea, black colored faeces, a rapid and irregular heart rate, low blood pressure, convulsions, and eventually coma and death. Early symptoms may commence within an hour after taking excess iron. |
Tests for Iron Poisoning
Diagnosed by appropriate blood tests. |
Treatment for Iron Poisoning
Induce vomiting to remove any recently swallowed iron, then urgent hospitalization. Medications are given to bind the iron and remove it from the body, then a drip into a vein to correct the dehydration caused by vomiting
and diarrhea.
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Complications of Iron Poisoning of its treatment
Even after apparent recovery, liver, pancreas and kidney failure may occur at a later date. |
Likely Outcome of Iron Poisoning
Depends upon the amount of iron taken, and the weight, age and health of the patient. |
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