intoxications

Intoxication is the state of physiological or mental impairment resulting from exposure to a toxic agent, including chemicals, drugs, or biological toxins. It can produce a wide range of symptoms and may be acute or chronic, mild or life-threatening. The term is often used to describe accidental, occupational, environmental, or intentional exposures.

Common causes include alcohol and other prescription or illicit substances; carbon monoxide; pesticides and solvents; heavy metals such as lead or mercury; plant and mushroom toxins; venomous substances. Toxic exposures may occur orally, inhalationally, dermally, or via other routes.

Clinical features depend on the substance but may include altered consciousness, confusion, agitation, sedation, vomiting, seizures, coma, respiratory or cardiac dysfunction. Pupillary changes, sweating, tremor, or ataxia may be present. Diagnosis relies on history and examination, with toxicology testing as an adjunct.

Management emphasizes safety and supportive care: secure airway, breathing, circulation; remove or reduce exposure; decontamination when appropriate; administer specific antidotes when indicated (for example, naloxone for opioid toxicity; N-acetylcysteine for acetaminophen; fomepizole for methanol/ethylene glycol; atropine and pralidoxime for organophosphates). General measures include activated charcoal within a limited window in selected cases, hydration, and monitoring for complications. Psychiatric assessment may be needed for intentional intoxication or substance use disorders.

Prevention focuses on safe storage of medicines and chemicals, public education, poison control resources, and early recognition of symptoms.