Interesting Case | Not So Fun In The Sun

With winter behind us and gorgeous weather an almost daily occasion, we tend to spend a lot more time outside than normal. Whether it be a leisurely stroll in the park or tossing the ball about in the yard, we definitely find ways to soak up the sun! A favorite past time of many during the spring is to tend to their lawns and gardens. You tend to see many of your neighbors making sure lawns are freshly manicured and weed free. This was no different for our recent caller John*. In order to control the weeds in his lawn, he used a common household pesticide that can be found at your local home improvement store. Unfortunately, the sprayer developed a leak and got all over his skin. John continued to treat his lawn and washed off the pesticide after he finished spraying. He developed a serious rash two days later. After treatment with an old tube of medication from a previous ailment didn't seem to be working, he called the Georgia Poison Center. We advised him on the types of irritations caused by herbicides (weed control) and what treatment to seek.

Think Poison.

When applying pesticides, always read the label. Follow the directions carefully and use the pesticide only as directed. Wear protective clothing such as coveralls, gloves, closed shoes, goggles, and a mask. If a spill occurs be sure to clean the area right away.

*caller's name was changed to protect their identity

Interesting Case| Not All Medicines Are Created Equal

Have you ever been shopping in the medication aisle of your favorite drug store and your normal brand of medicine isn't available so you decide to choose what you think is a comparable substitute? Well, unfortunately not all medications are created equal. Eventhough some medications may show the same type of active ingredients and same strength, have you ever considered the difference in medication coating? One caller, unfortunately found out the hard way. He developed an allergic reaction to the new medication and experienced difficulty breathing. Upon calling the Georgia Poison Center, our Specialist in Poison Information listened to his symptoms and advised him on treatment. This caller was treated at a local hospital and released with no further complications.

Be sure to check with the pharmacist at your local drug store before switching over the counter medications. If you have questions about those that you've already purchased, be sure to give us a ring at 1.800.222.1222.

Interesting Case | Purse Full o' Goodies

Do you remember growing up as a child with that one parent, or more than likely grandparent, that always had some sort of goody in their purse? Believe it or not those people still exist! Always willing to reach inside their purse and behold the magic sweetness that brings the widest smile to any child’s face. But what happens when the adult isn’t around, but the purse is? Since most children more so associate the candy with the purse, rather than the candy with the adult, they dig deep into the purse looking for…candy! Such was the case with a recent caller.

The concerned grandmother of a two-year old called us regarding her granddaughter who got into her purse and instead of candy, got a hold of a packet of silica gels. The purse happened to be brand new and those small packets of silica gels are often packaged inside of products such as purses and shoes. To a two-year old this packet looked a lot like candy. The child sucked on the packet, puncturing a hole in it and some of the contents got into the child’s mouth. Luckily, the grandmother called us in time and we were able to advise her on what to do.

Often times as caregivers, we underestimate the ingenuity of a two-year old! At this stage a lot is learned through association. That’s why it is always important to try and keep items not suitable for children out of their reach and never refer to medicines as candy in a way of coaxing the child into taking it!