Mistletoe

Definition

Poisoning from eating the any part of the plant but especially the berries of the mistletoe plant.

Poisonous Ingredient

• toxic amines
  

Where Found

• The toxin is found in all parts of the plant, but its highest concentration is in the leaves.
  

Symptoms

• body as a whole
  o weakness
  
• eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  o blurred vision
  
• gastrointestinal
  o Vomiting or nausea
  o Abdominal pain (lower stomach)
  o diarrhea
  
• heart and blood vessels
  o irregular or slow heartbeat
  o Low Blood pressure
  
• nervous system
  o drowsiness
  o confusion
  o hallucinations
  o disorientation
  o Convulsions
  

Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following information:

• the patient's age, weight, and condition
  
• the name of the plant
  
• the time it was swallowed
  
• the amount swallowed
  

Poison Control, or a local emergency number
Call the national poison control number, 1-800-222-1222. They will tell you whether it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. If so, bring the plant with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room

Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

• induce Vomiting
  
• administer activated charcoal
  
• monitor vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, and so forth)
  
• monitor EKG(monitors heart function)
  

Expectations (prognosis)