A poison is anything that causes harm to the body when swallowed. Some poisons can be obvious and clearly marked, for example hazardous chemicals, but others can be harder to spot, including the leaves or berries of some plants or fungi. Just because something is 'natural' does not always mean it is non-toxic. Around the home, many common household products (like bleach) can poison or burn if swallowed. Poisonous plants include certain types of mushroom and foxgloves. Prescribed and over-the-counter drugs can also be harmful if someone takes too many.
Signs and symptoms
If someone has swallowed a poison, they may have:
nausea and vomiting (sometimes bloodstained)
pain or burning sensation around the mouth, lips, or throat
cramping stomach pains
seizures
reduced level of response.
