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Warning-sign checks

Calcium carbonate 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

    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

    Seek prompt medical advice if nausea, constipation, thirst, frequent urination, weakness, or slowed thinking continues after the suspected exposure.

    Reduced urination, worsening confusion, repeated vomiting, fainting, or palpitations require urgent assessment.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Follow-up depends on the severity of the exposure.

    After a clinically important overdose, a healthcare professional may repeat calcium, bicarbonate, kidney function, and other electrolyte tests until they return toward the expected range.

    Routine follow-up should include a review of every medicine, antacid, vitamin, and supplement being used.

    Keeping an updated product list can help prevent accidental duplication.

    Labels should be checked for both calcium carbonate and elemental calcium.

    And for anyone, someone who:

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

The article also says

Store antacids and supplements out of children's sight and reach.

Their candy-like appearance and flavor may make chewable tablets attractive to children.

A clinician can also help address the original reason for taking the product.

Persistent or frequent heartburn should not simply be treated with increasing amounts of antacid.

People taking calcium for bone health may benefit from a review of whether supplementation is needed and how it fits with dietary calcium.

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