Skip navigation | ||
|
||
Medical Encyclopedia |
|
Other encyclopedia topics: | A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9 |
Contents of this page: | |
Definition
Poisoning from an overdose of mercuric oxide.Poisonous Ingredient
Mercuric oxide
Where Found
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.
Symptoms
Home Treatment
If there has been an ingestion of a button battery, DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. The person who ingested the battery will need immediate X-rays at a medical facility to make sure the battery is not lodged in the esophagus.
Most swallowed batteries that pass through the esophagus will then pass in the stool without complication. However, batteries lodged in the esophagus can cause esophageal erosion and can cause a hole in the esophagus very quickly, so you must obtain a medical evaluation immediately after the battery is swallowed.
Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following:
Poison Control, or a local emergency number
See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.
If a button battery was ingested, you can call the 24-hour National Button Battery Ingestion Hotline at (202) 625-3333.
What to expect at the emergency room
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:
Expectations (prognosis)
Prognosis depends upon the amount and route of exposure. Outcome from mercuric oxide overdose can range from complete recovery to irreversible organ damage or even death Update Date: 5/12/2003 Updated by: Todd Severson, M.D., Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
Home | Health Topics | Drug Information | Encyclopedia | Dictionary | News | Directories | Other Resources | |
Copyright | Privacy | Accessibility | Selection Guidelines U.S. National Library of Medicine, 8600 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894 National Institutes of Health | Department of Health & Human Services |
Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |