Intoxication Health Dictionary

Intoxication: From 4 Different Sources


A general term for a condition resulting from poisoning.

It customarily refers to the effects of excessive drinking (see alcohol intoxication), but also includes drug poisoning, poisoning from the accumulation of the by-products of metabolism in the body, or the effects of industrial poisons.

Health Source: BMA Medical Dictionary
Author: The British Medical Association
A term applied to states of poisoning. The poison may be some chemical substance introduced from outside, for example, ALCOHOL; or it may be due to the products of bacterial action, the bacteria either being introduced from outside or developing within the body. The term autointoxication is applied in the latter case.
Health Source: Medical Dictionary
Author: Health Dictionary
General condition which results following the absorption and diffusion in the body of a soluble poison
Health Source: Medicinal Plants Glossary
Author: Health Dictionary

Water Intoxication

A disorder resulting from excessive retention of water in the brain. Main symptoms are dizziness, headaches, confusion and nausea. In severe cases the patient may have ?ts (see SEIZURE) or lose consciousness. Several conditions can disturb the body’s water balance causing accumulation of water in the tissues. Heart or kidney failure, CIRRHOSIS of the liver and disorders of the ADRENAL GLANDS can all result in water retention. Other causes are stress as a result of surgery, when increased secretion of antidiuretic hormone (VASOPRESSIN) by the adrenal gland may occur. Treatment is of the underlying condition and the judicious use of DIURETICS, with careful monitoring of the body’s ELECTROLYTES.... water intoxication

Digoxin Intoxication

Digoxin poisoning is possible from over-prescription of the drug, a crystalline glycoside, a powerful heart tonic for cardiac weakness. Doses may have been given over a long period during which toxicity builds up and manifests as nausea and vomiting, slow heart rate, faulty vision where objects appear green. Effective herbal alternatives to digoxin exist, reducing the current high mortality rate. Patient might die if not treated quickly.

Treatment: Once a patient is established on any of the digitalis (Foxglove) drugs it is very difficult to discontinue. Smaller doses are advised in the process of weaning to Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) which has a digitalis-like effect by reversing heart rhythm disorders.

Dosage: dried leaves 60-200mg or by infusion. Liquid Extract, 0.6 to 2ml. Tincture, 0.5 to 1ml. Thrice daily.

Treatment by general medical practitioner or qualified phytotherapist. ... digoxin intoxication

Alcohol Intoxication

The condition that results from consuming an excessive amount of alcohol, often over a relatively short period. The effects of a large alcohol intake depend on many factors, including physical and mental state, body size, social situation, and acquired tolerance. The important factor, however, is the blood alcohol level. Mild intoxication promotes relaxation and increases social confidence. Alcohol causes acute poisoning if taken in sufficiently large amounts, however. It depresses the activity of the central nervous system, leading to loss of normal mental and physical control. In extreme cases, intoxication may lead to loss of consciousness and even death.

In most cases, recovery from alcohol intoxication takes place naturally as the alcohol is gradually broken down in the liver. Medical attention is required if the intoxication has resulted in coma. For the chronic mental, physical, and social effects of long-term heavy drinking, see alcohol dependence and alcohol-related disorders.... alcohol intoxication




Recent Searches