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Warning-sign checks

Paradichlorobenzene 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 if someone exposed to paradichlorobenzene has:

    • A seizure, collapse, or loss of consciousness
    • Severe confusion or difficulty being awakened
    • Trouble breathing or blue or gray lips
    • Repeated vomiting with marked drowsiness
    • Sudden severe weakness or inability to walk safely

    Elsewhere, use the local poison information service or emergency number.

    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

    Contact a poison center promptly after any known or possible swallowing of a mothball or deodorizer block.

    Also call after a substantial exposure in an enclosed space, an exposure involving a child, or repeated intentional exposure.

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

    Arrange prompt medical assessment for persistent headache, nausea, unusual tiredness, dark urine, jaundice, poor balance, tremor, memory changes, or personality changes after repeated exposure.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up is important after diagnosed poisoning, even when you feel better.

    Blood, liver, kidney, or neurological changes may need monitoring until they improve or become stable.

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