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Warning-sign checks

Peppermint oil overdose: 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 if the person:

    • Has trouble breathing, choking, or persistent coughing
    • Has a seizure
    • Collapses, cannot be awakened, or is severely confused
    • Has blue or grey lips or skin
    • Swallowed a large or unknown amount
    • Took the oil intentionally to cause harm

    If they are not breathing normally, begin emergency first aid if you know how and follow the emergency operator's instructions.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • 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 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

    Call a poison control service promptly if someone has swallowed concentrated peppermint oil or taken more peppermint oil medicine than the label directs.

    Do not wait for symptoms, especially when a child is involved or the amount is uncertain.

    Seek urgent medical advice for ongoing vomiting, marked dizziness, unusual sleepiness, poor coordination, reduced urine, blood in the urine, or persistent abdominal pain.

    New breathing problems, reduced alertness, or seizures are not routine follow-up concerns and need urgent care.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up is suitable after the immediate risk has passed if mild symptoms continue, test results need rechecking, or the treating team requested another review.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • is having side effects from a medicine, or is struggling to take it as prescribed

The article also says

If the person is unconscious but breathing, place them on their side if it is safe to do so.

Do not put anything in their mouth.

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