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Warning-sign checks

Malathion poisoning: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services now after a suspected malathion ingestion or if exposure is followed by trouble breathing, heavy secretions, repeated vomiting, confusion, collapse, seizures, or muscle weakness.

    Elsewhere, contact your local poison information centre or emergency service.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Do not wait for all symptoms to appear.

    Contact a poison centre immediately for any suspected exposure, even if symptoms are mild or absent.

    In the United States, Poison Control is available at 1-800-222-1222 .

    Seek prompt reassessment if symptoms return or new muscle or nerve symptoms develop.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up is appropriate after discharge to review recovery, test results, work safety, and any continuing fatigue or weakness.

The article also says

Move away from airborne pesticide only if this can be done safely.

Do not enter a contaminated enclosed area without proper protective equipment.

Remove contaminated clothing and wash exposed skin, while avoiding contact with the chemical yourself.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Malathion poisoning. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.