Talcum powder

Alternative names

Talc

Definition

This poisoning is due to exposure to talcum powder.

Poisonous Ingredient

Talc

Where Found

• Talcum powder
  
• Some antiseptics
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• Body as a whole
  o Fever
  o Twitching of the facial muscles
  o Twitching of arms, hands, legs, or feet
  o Convulsions
  o Urine output, decreased significantly (or none)
  o Collapse
  
• Respirations
  o Cough
  o Difficulty breathing
  o Acute respirator distress
  o Respiratory failure
  
• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  o Jaundice (yellowed eyes)
  o Eye irritation
  o Cough
  o Throat irritation
  
• Skin
  o Blisters
  o Rash
  o Bluish skin, lips, and fingernails
  o Sloughing of skin
  o Yellow skin
  
• Gastrointestinal
  o Vomiting - mucous, blood
  o Diarrhea - mucous, blood
  
• Heart and blood vessels
  o Low blood pressure
  
• Nervous system
  o Drowsiness
  o Lack of desire to do anything
  o Coma
  

Home Treatment
For any inhalation, seek emergency medical care immediately. Inhalation of talcum powder can be very serious. If on the skin, remove it by washing the area. Call Poison Control for guidance.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• The patient's age, weight, and condition
  
• The name of the product (as well as the ingredients and strength, if known)
  
• The time it was swallowed
  
• The amount swallowed
  

Poison Control, or a local emergency numberThey will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. Bring the container with you to the emergency room.