Poisonings: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Poisonings?
Emergency doctors and poison control specialists treat most poisonings. Afterward, a primary care doctor often provides follow-up care, checking recovery, adjusting medicines, and ordering tests. Some patients see a toxicologist, a specialist in poisons and their effects on the body.
What it is
A poisoning happens when a person swallows, breathes in, or touches something that can harm the body, such as a cleaning product, a medicine taken the wrong way, a pesticide, a plant, or a gas like carbon monoxide. Poisoning is a medical emergency in many cases, and quick action can make a big difference.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the substance and the type of exposure. Common signs include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, and trouble breathing. Some poisons cause drowsiness, confusion, seizures, or a slow or fast heartbeat. Carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas, can cause headache, dizziness, and weakness. If someone has trouble breathing, faints, or has a seizure, call 911 right away.
Causes and who gets it
Most poisonings happen at home. Young children may swallow medicines, vitamins, or cleaning products that look like food or candy. Adults can be poisoned by mixing medicines, taking too much of a drug, or breathing in fumes. Older adults taking several medicines risk drug interactions, and people who use strong chemicals at work face higher risk.
How doctors diagnose it
Doctors start by asking what the person swallowed, breathed in, or touched, and when it happened. They do a physical exam, check vital signs, and may order blood and urine tests to identify the substance and check how organs are working.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the substance and how serious the poisoning is. Doctors may give activated charcoal to absorb some swallowed poisons, or an antidote that reverses a specific poison. Care often includes IV fluids, oxygen, and monitoring of the heart and other organs.
When to see a doctor
Call 911 right away if a person is unconscious, having trouble breathing, having a seizure, or very confused. For less urgent cases, call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222, open 24 hours a day. Even if someone feels fine after an exposure, a doctor should check them, because some poisons cause harm slowly.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either can be a good partner for follow-up care after a poisoning. They often offer longer visits and easier access. If the poisoning caused lasting organ problems, they will refer you to a toxicologist or another specialist.
Common questions
Should I make someone vomit if they swallowed something harmful?
No, not unless a poison expert tells you to. Some substances cause more damage coming back up. Call the Poison Help line first.
Is it safe to mix different medicines?
Not always. Some drug combinations are dangerous even when each drug is safe on its own. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before combining medicines, including herbal products.
How can I prevent poisonings at home?
Keep medicines and chemicals locked up and out of reach of children. Keep products in their original containers, and install a carbon monoxide detector in your home.
Can a poisoning cause long-term harm?
It can, depending on the substance and how quickly treatment started. Some poisons affect the liver, kidneys, lungs, or nervous system over time. Your doctor can explain what to watch for in your situation.
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Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
