Common Chemicals in the home that cause toxicological poisoning - Essay Example

Common Chemicals in the home that cause toxicological poisoning affiliation Common Chemicals in the home that cause toxicological poisoning The home, as argued by Turkington & Mitchell (2010), is full of products that comprise of substances that contain household toxins. In this case, there are high chances that a lot of individuals will be predisposed to poisoning, mostly involuntarily. Turkington & Mitchell (2010) indicate that acids are one of the common chemicals in the home that risk poisoning.

Acids can be found in polishes, cleaning agents, waxes, bleaches, disinfectants, preservatives amongst others. Since acids are soluble in water, they cause corrosion when in contact with the body (Turkington & Mitchell, 2010). This may cause death, breathing complications, shock or even nausea. Treatment may be done by giving the person a lot of fluids, prevent vomiting by the victim and in worse situations, contact the poising centre is advised (Turkington & Mitchell, 2010). Acrylamide is yet another household chemical that may cause poisoning.

Acrylamide is used to treat drinking water and toughen paper (Turkington & Mitchell, 2010). This chemical dissolves in water, can be ingested, inhaled and absorbed via the skin. Acrylamide may damage the brain, peel and inflame the skin, numben the legs and may cause drowsiness. Treatments can be done by administering activated charcoal and gastric lavage with salty cathartics (Turkington & Mitchell, 2010). Vitamins B1 and B12 may be helpful in protecting the central nervous system (Turkington & Mitchell, 2010).

Medicines also contain chemicals that may cause deaths in the homes. Medicines may contain iron, aspirins, sedatives, digoxin, and quinidine amongst other chemicals that may lead to suicidal actions in the homes (Turkington & Mitchell, 2010). Care can be taken by storing medicines well, especially among children, and adults avoiding overdependence on medicine. ReferenceTurkington, C. & Mitchell, D. (2010). The Encyclopedia of Poisons and Antidotes. NY: Infobase Publishing.