1. Definition
What is harmless substance poisoning?
This happens when your child swallows certain objects or substances that are not harmful to the body. Some examples are wax, chalk, crayons, ballpoint pens, marker ink, pencil lead (graphite sticks), cat or dog food, cat litter, dust, soap, body lotion, lipstick, petroleum jelly, shampoo, shaving cream, silica beads, sunscreen lotion, and toothpaste.
Children usually like to chew the newspaper, but not swallow it. In general, newsprint ink does not harm the body, unless some of the dyes in the ink are made of harmful substances. But believe me, the occasional newspaper chewing won't cause you any serious problems.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Most of the substances that should not be eaten will not show any symptoms after being ingested by the body.
2. How to fix it
What should I do?
Consult your doctor for the next steps for treatment.
When should I see a doctor?
We recommend that you immediately contact the nearest medical assistance or call 112.
3. Prevention
There are several things you can do to prevent poisoning and avoid situations where your child puts non-food items in their mouth.
- Store and keep medicines and other chemicals out of reach of children, especially toilet cleaners, furniture polish, drugs, and insecticides. These products are the most common and dangerous causes of poisoning.
- Store and keep alcoholic drinks out of reach of children. Alcoholic drinks, even if only 100 ml can cause fatal consequences in a 2 year old child. It's important to remember: mouthwash generally contains 15-25% alcohol.
- Seal or seal each drug after use, and remember to always pay attention to the dosage before using it.
- Do not leave the medication in easy-to-reach public places when you are not paying attention.
- Do not keep the medicine in a bag, because children often rummage through your bag for candy or chocolate. When you are receiving guests, keep the bag or wallet out of reach of children.
- Always read product labels carefully before using them. Make sure it is the right medication for your child and that you are taking the dosage correctly. Do not give the dose when it is dark or the lights go out.
- Learn about each of the houseplants and which ones can cause poisoning (vomiting or diarrhea) when consumed. Teach your child not to carelessly put grass, leaves, seeds, or fruit from plants directly into the mouth.
- Do not store chemical liquids in soda drink bottles or other oils and fuels in food and beverage containers or bottles.
- Sometimes, children put objects in their mouth because of their curiosity. You can't just tell your child not to carelessly put anything in their mouth. To prevent poisoning, parents must also be available to monitor where their children are playing and what they are doing.
