Myrkky

Myrkky is the Finnish word for poison. In general, a poison is any substance that can cause harm, illness, or death to a living organism when encountered in sufficient amount, route, or concentration. Poisoning is the adverse outcome of exposure. Toxicology is the science that studies these effects. Poisons can be chemical, biological (toxins produced by living organisms), or physical.

Exposure can be acute or chronic and may occur by ingestion, inhalation, dermal contact, or injection. Common sources include household chemicals, pesticides, medicines taken in overdose, heavy metals, alcohol, and venoms from animals or plants. The mechanisms of harm are diverse, ranging from enzyme inhibition and disruption of cellular processes to damage to organs or tissues.

Diagnosis relies on history, symptoms, and sometimes laboratory tests. Treatment emphasizes decontamination when appropriate, and supportive medical care. First aid measures may include moving the person to fresh air, removing contaminated clothing, and rinsing skin or eyes. Do not induce vomiting unless advised by a professional. Activated charcoal may be used in some ingestions within a limited time window, and specific antidotes exist for certain poisons (for example naloxone for opioid overdose; atropine and pralidoxime for certain nerve agents; chelating agents for some heavy metals). General supportive care includes fluids, monitoring, and treatment of organ dysfunction.

Prevention focuses on safe storage and labeling of chemicals, childproofing homes, correct medication use, and proper disposal of toxic substances. Poison control centers provide guidance in suspected cases.