Poisonous substances lie in wait for us everywhere. Some of them have an almost immediate effect, while others can act slowly. The degree of intoxication in each specific case is different. It depends on the characteristics of the body and the amount of poison that has entered the body. Therefore, determining the most powerful poison in the world is problematic. Nevertheless, we can highlight a list of toxic substances that pose the greatest danger.
The most powerful poisonous chemicals
Potent poisons have been synthesized by scientists for military purposes. But sometimes toxic substances can be found in everyday conditions. Among the most dangerous of them are:
- Mercury. It is contained in ordinary thermometers. If the integrity of the flask is not compromised, then mercury does not pose any health hazard. Mercury vapor from broken thermometer. The evaporation process begins even when room temperature. It is prohibited to collect spilled mercury yourself. You must immediately seek help from a specialized service.
- Methanol. This substance is often confused with food grade ethyl alcohol, which leads to serious poisoning. Methanol is colorless and odorless, so it is impossible to identify it without laboratory testing. Consumption of even a small amount of this substance can be fatal. a person loses his sight.
- Potassium cyanide. This is the most powerful poison for humans. It is widely used in plastic products, photography, gold mining and some other fields. Poisoning occurs even from inhaling cyanide vapor. In the shortest possible time, respiratory failure develops and convulsions appear. In case of severe intoxication, death occurs.
- Sarin. This is a substance that was synthesized by German scientists. They pursued the goal of creating the world's strongest pesticide. The resulting gas has gained fame as a poison that causes a long and painful death. Today, the deadly poison sarin is officially banned, but terrorists are trying to use it as a chemical weapon.
- Arsenic. This element of the periodic table has long been used as a poison. Many political figures were poisoned with it. Symptoms of poisoning are similar to cholera. First of all, cramps and severe pain appear in the abdominal area. After large amounts of arsenic enter the body, heart disease develops, diabetes or cancer.
These substances are extremely dangerous for humans. Therefore, their features must be remembered.
The most dangerous poisons for humans are also found in plants. Such poisonings often await inexperienced mushroom pickers and other flora lovers. Special attention The following substances deserve:
- Amatoxin is the most powerful protein poison. It is found in some mushrooms, including toadstool. Once in the human body, the toxin immediately begins to destroy internal organs. The first signs of intoxication may appear only after a few days. In this case, valuable time to save a person is lost, and doctors cannot guarantee a favorable prognosis. Even if the patient’s life can be saved, his health will be severely compromised. Most likely, a person will be tormented by kidney or liver failure, problems with the respiratory system. People often wonder what is more toxic: the toadstool or potassium cyanide. In fact, these poisons can be placed on the same level in terms of toxicity.
- Strychnine. This poison is found in the nuts of the chilibuha tree. In microscopic dosages it is used for medical purposes. If the permissible amount is exceeded, death occurs, but before this the person experiences severe suffering.
- Ricin. Contained in castor beans. Inhalation of small grains of this substance is dangerous. Its poisoning ability is several times greater than that of potassium cyanide. Human death occurs if ricin is injected directly into the blood.
- Curare. It is a poison that is produced from a mixture of plants in South America. Its main component is an alkaloid, which, when ingested, leads to paralysis and cardiac arrest. Death from curare is painful.
To avoid poisoning from such poisons, never eat unknown plants. Teach children about safety precautions when traveling outdoors.
If you notice the first symptoms of poisoning, consult a doctor immediately. Chances of salvation remain only if the problem is identified in a timely manner.
Animal poisons
Poison can kill a person instantly. Such toxic substances are often carried by animals. Among them are:
- Toads chirp. The skin of these amphibians secretes chiriquitotoxin. This neurotoxin has a toxic effect on the human nervous system. After intoxication, a person experiences severe convulsions, coordination of movements is impaired, and complete paralysis of the limbs may develop. The poison has strong impact if administered intramuscularly.
- Puffer fish. The milk, caviar and liver of this fish contain tetrodotoxin. This substance causes severe poisoning, which is accompanied by severe itching, drooling, convulsions, difficulty swallowing. The poison is fast, so paralysis of the respiratory system develops in the shortest possible time and a person’s death occurs.
- Australian Taipan. The venom of this snake contains thaipotoxin. Its entry into the human blood leads to paralysis of the respiratory muscles and impaired blood clotting. This kind of snake venom is the most poisonous. In terms of poisoning ability, it is several times greater than cobra venom.
- Karakurt. During the bite, the spider injects alpha-latrotoxin into the victim's blood. It leads to severe pain that spreads throughout the body in a matter of minutes. At the same time, it appears severe shortness of breath, dizziness, increased heart rate, and bouts of vomiting.
- Central Asian cobra. This snake's saliva contains a powerful neurotoxin. Its entry into the human blood provokes convulsions, breathing problems, and paralysis. If left untreated, death occurs. Such poisonings are rare, since the cobra attacks a person only in exceptional cases.
Poison can be contained in the biological material of any animal. Therefore, it is best to minimize contact with it, especially for wild fauna.
If you were bitten poisonous snake or a spider, try to immediately suck the poison out of the wound. Remember that this can only be done if there is no damage to the oral cavity. Seek medical help as soon as possible.
Bacteriological poisoning
Not only animals and plants, but also bacteria can pose a danger to humans. Their vital activity in the human body leads to the formation of strong toxins. Among them, the following can be particularly highlighted:
- Botulinum toxin. It is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Its vital activity leads to the development of botulism in humans. This is a disease that can only be treated in the earliest stages. In other cases, the probability of death is extremely high. The bacterium multiplies quickly in the absence of oxygen, so poor quality canned food often becomes a source of poisoning.
- Anthrax bacillus. Its entry into the body leads to the development of anthrax. This disease develops rapidly. There are cutaneous and intestinal forms. In the first case, death occurs in 20% of cases. With the intestinal form of the disease, no more than 5% of victims can be saved.
- Tetanus toxin. This substance is produced by rods of the genus Clostridium. Infection most often occurs through open wounds on the body. Infection manifests itself in the form of convulsions, impaired swallowing reflex, lesions respiratory center and cardiovascular system. The likelihood of death is extremely high.
Determining the fastest-acting poison is quite difficult. Everything will depend on a combination of many factors. Try to have as little contact as possible with hazardous substances. If infection does occur, do not try to cure it yourself. Only timely seeking medical help will save your life.
All of us, one way or another, have encountered such a phenomenon as poisons. Some enthusiastically read about them in books, some were briefly told about them in school lessons, and some directly worked with them. Poisons are divided into natural and artificially created, and have been present in human history since time immemorial. People, such ruthless and sophisticated creatures, not only learned to extract poison from natural materials, but also decided to go further - they created methods of killing with their own hands. And, I must admit, they did it well. The heyday of poisons occurred in the dark and mysterious Middle Ages - a time when animal fear, cruelty and unquestioning obedience to religion dominated society. And, as it turned out, the endless games of the nobility with death, in the struggle for the throne, became the final touch in the dark trail of the Middle Ages. However, even today poisons have not lost their relevance and continue to interest many people. It’s a pity, of course, that it’s not only for scientific purposes. But, if you found this article out of pure curiosity, why not? Check out the top 10 most dangerous poisons in the world.
Everyone knows the dangerous effects of mercury on the human body. That is why we were so often told to be careful with thermometers and immediately take appropriate measures if it turned out to be broken. Theoretically, there are three forms of mercury that are deadly to humans: elemental, organic and inorganic mercury. We often encounter elemental mercury in Everyday life- these are the same banal old thermometers or fluorescent lamps. This type of mercury is safe to touch, but can be fatal if inhaled. Symptoms of mercury poisoning are almost the same in all species, and can range from nausea and seizures to blindness and even memory loss.
If we look at history, arsenic was at one time the most popular poison and a favorite among murderers. It was even called “royal poison.” The use of arsenic began in ancient times (the use of this poison was even attributed to Caligula), mainly in order to eliminate enemies and competitors in the endless struggle for the throne - no matter whether royal or papal. Arsenic was the poison of choice for all European nobility during the Middle Ages. His popularity was based various factors– both power and availability. For example, in Great Britain, arsenic was sold in pharmacies as a rodent poison. However, while in Europe arsenic brought only death and suffering, traditional Chinese medicine For two thousand years, it has been used to treat diseases such as syphilis and psoriasis. Nowadays, scientists have experimentally proven that leukemia can be treated with arsenic. And it was Chinese doctors who discovered that such a strong poison was able to successfully block proteins responsible for the growth and reproduction of cancer cells.
Quite a sensational poison in its time. Anthrax is a frequent guest in the media due to the large volume of letters contaminated with it and sent to innocent victims in the United States. As a result of this attack, 10 people died and another 17 were seriously infected. In this regard, a huge general paranoia broke out in the country, affecting millions. And, I must admit, it’s not in vain. After all, anthrax is caused by bacteria, and one breath is enough for complete infection. Such a strong poison is spread by spores that are released into the air. After infection, the victim feels only a chill, which gradually turns into impaired breathing, and then to a stop. The mortality rate from this disease reaches as much as 90% in the first week from the moment of infection.
This famous toxin has become literally synonymous with poison. Potassium cyanide can be in the form of a colorless gas with the smell of bitter almonds (does everyone remember Agatha Christie's novels?), or crystals. Cyanide is present almost everywhere: this poison can form naturally in some foods and plants. Also, cyanide is present in cigarettes. It is used in the manufacture of plastics, printing photographs, and, of course, potassium cyanide is a must in the composition of insect baiting agents. Cyanide poisoning can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or even simple touching. The slightest dose is enough for the poison, once in the body, to paralyze the blood flow and block the access of oxygen. Death occurs almost instantly. Potassium cyanide was actively used during World War I, and was banned along with all chemical weapons later, in accordance with the Geneva Convention.
Sarin is one of the most powerful nerve gases, which is considered a weapon mass destruction. Death from this poison is always incredibly painful and brings terrible agony to the victim. Causing complete suffocation, Sarin kills a person in just a minute, which, however, seems like an eternity to the victim. Despite the fact that the production of Sarin has been prohibited by law since 1993, since then quite a few cases of its use have been recorded. For example, in terrorist attacks or chemical warfare. The chemical attack of 1995 in the Tokyo subway and the uprisings in Syria and Iraq stand out especially strongly against this background.
Strychnine was originally extracted from trees that grew in Southeast Asia and India. Pure strychnine powder white, has a bitter taste and is fatal when ingested by any route, whether by injection or inhalation. Despite the fact that the original purpose of strychnine was to use it as a pesticide, it has been added to drugs such as cocaine and heroin on many occasions. Strychnine poisoning may cause many symptoms within thirty minutes, such as: muscle spasms, respiratory failure, nausea, vomiting, and it is not uncommon that the entire process of poison spreading throughout the body ends in brain death. And all this in just half an hour!
The mushroom, which contains such a powerful poison, looks, unfortunately, no more dangerous than its edible counterparts. However, just thirty grams of the deadly mushroom can send a person to the “other world.” Amatoxin has an incredibly destructive effect on the human body. This poison can cause serious damage to the kidneys and liver and cause death of organ cells in just a couple of days. Also, it often causes multiple organ failure and even coma. Amatoxin is such a strong poison that it can seriously harm the heart. In this case, the victim will face certain death, without the immediate administration of an antidote, which, by the way, is a large dose of penicillin. Without an antidote, victims of amatoxin have a 100% chance of falling into a coma and dying from liver or heart failure within a few days.
The “supplier” of this well-known poison is Fugu fish, which at first glance will not seem to you to be particularly dangerous predators. However, their skin, intestines, liver and other organs contain one of the most dangerous and deadly poisons known to mankind. If improperly prepared, fugu fish can cause convulsions, paralysis, and various psychical deviations and many other health problems for those who dare to try it. Despite this danger, because tetrodotoxin is a deadly poison, people in many countries continue to order this fish, sometimes even paying an insurance premium in advance. And although the delicacy is Japanese, and it would seem that it is in Japan that everyone should know how to properly prepare such a “risky” dish, it is in this country that it is registered greatest number victims per year. About three hundred people are poisoned by tetrodotoxin every year, and more than half of them die.
Being a derivative of the castor bean - a perennial, very poisonous plant, ricin is also considered a natural poison. Therefore, people risk being exposed to it in several ways: through food, air or water. And, depending on this route, the symptoms of ricin poisoning may vary. However, the principle of damage to the body remains unchanged. Ricin poisons the body, blocking the ability of cells to synthesize proteins necessary for life. As a result, such “blocked” cells die, and this, in turn, often leads to failure of the entire organ that was subjected to the poisonous attack of ricin. And the fact that ricin has the most powerful lethal effect when inhaled served as a signal for many people who began sending poison by mail, in envelopes, as they once did with anthrax. After all, just one pinch of ricin can kill a person. If we take all these facts into account, it becomes clear why the decision was made to study ricin as a tool for chemical warfare.
In this article we have listed many poisons that have simply incredible power and can kill in record time. short time. However, many experts in the field of toxicology unanimously agree that botulinum toxin can be called the deadliest poison in the world. By the way, this is what is used in Botox injections to smooth out wrinkles. This poison leads to botulism, a disease that causes respiratory failure, neurological disorders and other more severe damage. Several factors led to Botulinum toxin becoming the most dangerous poison on Earth. Its volatile and easily accessible nature, its powerful effects on the body and its frequent use in medicine. For example, just one test tube full of this toxin could potentially kill about a hundred people. The scope of application of botulinum toxin is multifaceted - starting from the well-known Botox and ending as a method of treating migraines. Therefore, even deaths among patients as a result of procedures that included Botox injections are not uncommon. People often think of poisons as a myth from Shakespeare's dramas, or ripped from the pages of Agatha Christie's novels. But in fact, poison can be found everywhere: in cute little bottles under the kitchen sink, in our drinking water, and even in our blood. Below are ten of the world's most under-the-radar poisons, some exotic, others frighteningly common.
10. Hydrogen Cyanide
Although cyanide carries a terrible stigma, its history is rich and fruitful. Some scientists even believe that cyanide may have been one of the chemicals that helped form life on earth. Today it is better known as the lethal substance, the active ingredient in Zyklon B, which the Nazis used to exterminate Jews in showers. Cyanide is a chemical used as capital punishment in the gas chambers of the United States. Those who have been in contact with the substance describe its odor as similar to that of sweet almonds. Cyanide kills by binding to the iron in our blood cells and destroying them, making them unable to carry oxygen throughout the body. Most states in the United States have stopped using the gas chamber because this type of death penalty considered unnecessarily cruel. Death can take several minutes and is often horrific to watch as the condemned convicts writhe in agony and salivate profusely as the body attempts to prevent death.
9. Hydrofluoric acid or hydrofluoric acid(Hydrofluoric Acid) 
Hydrofluoric acid is used in a number of industries, such as metallurgy and even in the manufacture of Teflon. There are much more powerful acids in the world than hydrofluoric acid, but few of them are as dangerous to humans. In gaseous form it can easily burn out the eyes and lungs, but in liquid form it is especially insidious. Initially, when it comes into contact with human skin, it is completely imperceptible. Due to the fact that it does not cause pain upon contact, people can become seriously poisoned without noticing it. It penetrates the skin into the bloodstream, where it reacts with calcium in the body. In the worst cases, it seeps through the tissue and destroys the bone underneath.
8. Batrachotoxin
Fortunately for most of us, our chance of encountering batrachotoxin is incredibly small. Batrachotoxin is one of the most potent neurotoxins in the world and is found in the skin of tiny dart frogs. Frogs do not produce the poison themselves, it is produced in their bodies by the food they eat, most likely from eating tiny bugs. There are several different versions of the poison depending on the type of frog, the most dangerous is the type of batrachotoxin produced by the Colombian frog called the terrible leaf creeper. This frog is so tiny that it can fit on the tip of your finger, but the poison on the skin of one frog is enough to kill about two dozen people, or a couple of elephants. The toxin attacks nerves, opening their sodium channels and causing paralysis, essentially shutting down the entire body's ability to communicate with itself. There is no antidote in the world, and death occurs very quickly.
7. VX Nerve Gas
Banned from use by the Chemical Weapons Convention (global supplies of this gas are gradually decreasing), VX nerve gas is considered the most powerful nerve gas in the world. The danger of this gas, discovered completely by accident in 1952 during chemical testing of organophosphates, was quickly discovered. Marketed as a pesticide under the name "Amiton", it was soon withdrawn due to its too great danger for society. It soon attracted the attention of world governments as it was a time of political unrest cold war, and gas began to be stockpiled for potential use in war. Luckily, no one started a war and the VX was never used in combat. A cultist from the Japanese group Aum Shinriyko stole some of this gas and used it to kill a man - the only known human death caused by VX gas. The gas stops the production of enzymes in the nerves, causing the nerves to be in a constant state of activity, creating a “storm” in the nervous system that quickly overloads and destroys the body.
6. Agent Orange
Almost everyone has heard of the defoliant Agent Orange, created by Dow Chemical and Monsanto (which are considered the most evil corporations in the world). Agent Orange was used during the Vietnam War to eradicate trees that provided cover for enemy soldiers and to destroy crops in rural areas. Unfortunately, in addition to being a plant-killing agent, the herbicides contained a chemical dioxin called TCDD (tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin), a known carcinogen that causes a significant increase in the risk of cancer, especially lymphoma, in those exposed to it. In addition, tens of thousands of Vietnamese children were born stillborn or with birth defects such as cleft palate, extra fingers and toes, and mental retardation. Vietnam remains very polluted to this day.
5. Ricin
Derived from the castor bean plant, ricin is one of the deadliest poisons. A small dose, comparable to a few grains of salt, is enough to kill an adult. The venom stops the production of proteins that the body needs to survive, causing victims to go into shock. Due to its simple production process, ricin has been weaponized by many governments around the world, and has been used for... at least, once for murder when Bulgarian dissident writer Georgi Markov was shot with ricin pellets on a London street in 1978. It is believed that the Bulgarian secret police and/or the KGB were responsible for the murder.
4. Arsenic
The metalloid arsenic has been used for centuries for a variety of purposes, from weapons production to cosmetics during the Victorian era (when sickly pallor was considered a fashion statement among women). During the Dark Ages, arsenic became a popular poison for assassins due to its effect - arsenic poisoning has symptoms similar to cholera, which was widespread during those times. Arsenic attacks adenosine triphosphatases in human cells, cutting off the flow of energy. Arsenic is a very unpleasant substance that, in strong concentrations, can cause different kinds gastrointestinal disorders with bleeding, convulsions, coma and death. In small amounts taken on a regular basis (for example, through arsenic-contaminated water), arsenic has been linked to a number of diseases, such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes.
3. Lead
Lead is one of the very first metals used by man. Its first smelting was made 8,000 years ago. However, it dangerous influence it became known only a few decades ago that lead affects every organ in the human body, so lead poisoning manifests itself through a range of symptoms, starting with diarrhea and ending with mental retardation. Children are especially at risk of poisoning; fetal exposure to lead causes pathological neurological disorders. Strangest of all, many criminologists believe that the widespread decline in violent crime is at least partly the result of increased restrictions on the use of lead. Children born after 1980 were much less likely to be exposed to lead and, as a result, were less likely to become violent.
2. Brodifacoum
Immediately after the end of World War II, the poison warfarin began to be used as a rodenticide (and interestingly enough, it was also used as an anticoagulant for people with bleeding disorders). But rats are known for their ability to survive at all costs, and over time, many of them have become resistant to warfarin. Therefore, it was replaced by brodifacoum. An extremely lethal anticoagulant, brodifacoum reduces the amount of vitamin K in the blood. Due to the fact that vitamin K is necessary for the blood clotting process, the body over time is subject to severe internal bleeding as blood spreads throughout the body from the rupture of tiny capillaries. Brodifacoum, which is sold under brands such as Havoc, Talon, and Jaguar, must be handled with great care because it penetrates the skin easily and remains in the body for many months.
1. Strychnine
Derived primarily from a tree called chilibuha, which is native to India and southeast Asia, strychnine is an alkaloid substance and is used as a pesticide, especially in rodent control. Death caused by strychnine poisoning is terribly painful. As a neurotoxin, strychnine attacks spinal nerves, causing cramps and violent muscle contractions. Oskar Dirlewanger, a Nazi SS commander during World War II, injected his prisoners with strychnine and amused himself by watching them writhe. Strychnine is one of the few substances on this list that is both cheap and available on the market. It's possible that strychnine is sold at your local hardware store under a name like "Rodent Killer" or something similar.
Foods and drinks that are very familiar to us can turn out to be deadly. And the simplest objects contain poison. It turns out that the most strong poisons sometimes they are close to us, and we don’t even suspect it.
Dangerous poisons
- Methanol, or methyl alcohol is very dangerous poison. This is explained by the fact that it is easy to confuse it with ordinary wine alcohol, since they are indistinguishable in taste and smell. Counterfeit alcoholic drinks are sometimes made from methyl alcohol, but without an examination it is impossible to determine the presence of methanol. Unfortunately, the consequences of consuming such drinks are irreversible; at best, a person becomes blind. 
Mercury. Everyone at home has the most common item - a mercury thermometer. It turns out that if you spill mercury from two or three thermometers in a medium-sized room, this will be enough to cause serious poisoning. True, elemental mercury itself is not dangerous, its vapors are dangerous, and it begins to evaporate already at room temperature. In addition to thermometers, the same type of mercury is found in fluorescent lamps. So be careful with them.
Snake poison. There are more than two and a half thousand species of reptiles, but only about 250 species are poisonous. The most famous are common vipers, cobras, rattlesnakes, black mambas, and small snakes - sand ephs.
People have long found out that snake venom is dangerous only when it enters the human bloodstream. And, since humanity has been dealing with snakes for many millennia, it is not surprising that it was while studying the effects of snake venom on the bodies of animals and people that the first antidote was created in 1895 - anti-snake serum. By the way, there is no universal antidote even in case of poisoning snake venom, for each type of snake, its own antitoxin is created - for the king cobra - one, for vipers - another, for rattlesnakes - a third.
The fastest poison
There are many poisons, but potassium cyanide is still considered one of the fastest-acting. It has been used since ancient times, it is probably the most famous "spy" poison: many agents in films and books use cyanide in ampoules or tablets. And everyone probably read about such a sign as the smell of “bitter almonds” in Agatha Christie’s wonderful detective stories. 
You can be poisoned by cyanide not only by ingestion, but also by inhalation or touching. Potassium cyanide is found in some plants and foods, as well as cigarettes. It is used in the extraction of gold from ore. Cyanide kills by binding iron in blood cells, thereby preventing them from delivering oxygen to vital organs.
Cyanide can be determined using a solution of ferric salts
By the way, they tried to poison Grigory Rasputin with potassium cyanide, but they couldn’t because they added the poison to a sweet pie. Glucose is an antidote to potassium cyanide.
The most accessible poisons
In summer and autumn, the time comes for seasonal mushroom poisoning - by the way, these are the most accessible poisonous substances today. The most famous poisonous mushrooms are false mushrooms, toadstools, lines and fly agarics. The most poisoned mushroom is the toadstool, since it has many varieties, sometimes indistinguishable from edible mushrooms, and one such mushroom can lead to the death of several people. 
Although the Germans have learned to prepare fly agarics in such a way that they are not poisoned by them, it is true that it takes them a lot of time to prepare these mushrooms - they boil them for days. True, the question arises - why do they need fly agarics when they can simply take other mushrooms for food? And of course, we must remember the rules for storing cooked mushrooms; even edible mushrooms can become poisonous if the shelf life is violated.
Regular potatoes or bread can also be poisonous. When stored improperly, potatoes accumulate the substance solanine, which causes poisoning to the body. And bread becomes poisonous if flour was used to make it and contained cereals contaminated with ergot. We are not talking about fatal poisoning, but it is quite possible to ruin your health with such products.
In addition, there are many household chemicals and fertilizers that can also cause poisoning. For example, potassium chloride- the most common fertilizer, but if it gets into the blood it becomes deadly, since potassium ions block the activity of the heart.
The most famous poison
IN South America the most famous poison is curare, a poison plant origin, there are several subtypes of this poison. It causes paralysis of the respiratory system. Initially it was used for hunting animals, but in the 20th century it was successfully used in medicine. 
There is also strychnine, a white powder that is sometimes used in some drugs (such as heroin and cocaine). Although it is much more often used in the manufacture of pesticides. To obtain this powder, the seeds of the chilibuha tree, which is native to Southeast Asia and India, are taken.
But the most famous poison is, of course, arsenic; it can be called the “royal poison”. It has been used since ancient times (its use is also attributed to Caligula) to eliminate their enemies and competitors in the struggle for the throne, no matter the papal or royal one. It was the favorite poison of European nobility in the Middle Ages.
The most famous poisoners
The story of the Italian Borgia dynasty of poisoners, who elevated poisoning almost to the level of art, is unique. Everyone without exception was afraid of their invitation to the feast. The most famous representatives of this family for their treachery are Pope Alexander VI Borgia and his children: son Cesare, who became a cardinal, and daughter Lucrezia. This family had their own poison, "cantarella", supposedly containing arsenic, phosphorus and copper salts. It is known that the head of the family himself ultimately paid with his life for his treachery, having mistakenly drunk a cup of poison that he had prepared for another. 
In France, arsenic was used by women, the most famous of them was Catherine de Medici, who became Queen of France. There were also poisoners of lower rank - favorites of kings, marquises, baronesses and wives of jewelers. It is believed that Napoleon was poisoned with arsenic.
The most powerful poison in the world
And now scientists will not answer the question of what poison is the most powerful in the world. Some of the most powerful poisons are botulism and tetanus toxins. 
Among natural poisons, batrachotoxin is very dangerous; it is secreted by the skin of small but dangerous amphibians - dart frogs, fortunately, they can only be found in Colombia. One such frog contains so much poisonous substance that it is enough to destroy several elephants.
In addition, there are radioactive poisons, such as polonium. It acts slowly, but only 1 gram of this substance is needed to destroy one and a half million people. Snake venom, curare, potassium cyanide - they are all inferior to the above poisons.
It's not just snakes that are poisonous. As the editors of the site found out, the most poisonous creature on Earth is the jellyfish.
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Residents of city apartments and gardeners always deal with insecticides - thiophos, karbofos, chlorophos, metaphos, the brand names of which can be very fancy and even poetic. Their essence, however, does not change from this - they all belong to organophosphorus compounds, being direct relatives of nerve gases. And they also act by selectively disrupting the work of the enzyme cholinesterase and, thus, “paralyzing” the nervous system.
In terms of the degree of toxicity, these insect control agents do not look very “modest” - thiophos lethal dose when taken orally, 1-2 g, and according to some data only 0.24 g (less than 10 drops). Metaphos is approximately five times less toxic (though not only for humans, but also for insects). Among household poisons, both of them are included in the “leading” group in terms of toxicity.
The most dangerous poisonings are children, who often hang around bottles with organophosphorus insecticides and can use them themselves at any time. Few adults follow the instructions on bottles: “Keep away from children!” In addition, in the struggle for consumers, companies rarely objectively talk about the toxicity of the products they produce, so that adults have a very vague idea about it. Organophosphorus insecticides are absorbed rapidly - already in the nasal cavity and pharynx.
Poisons penetrate through the skin and mucous membranes of the eyes. All this makes it difficult to provide assistance in case of acute poisoning, especially for a child who cannot even really explain what happened.
But even the correct use of “homemade” insecticides according to the instructions can lead to many troubles. Thus, companies guarantee that 1-3 hours after airing a room sprayed with insecticides, it can be entered without any health consequences. Recent research has debunked this misconception. It turned out that even after two to three weeks insecticides remain on the surface of sprayed objects in noticeable quantities. Moreover, their highest concentration was determined on toys (!) - both soft and plastic, which absorbed poisons like a sponge. The most amazing thing is that when completely clean toys were brought into the sprayed room, after two weeks they were completely saturated with insecticide to a level 20 times higher than permissible.
No less serious is the problem of exposure of children in the womb to pesticides. Even minute concentrations of these poisons lead to serious violations physical and mental development of children. Children exposed to their attack in utero have weakened memory, do not recognize objects well, and learn various skills more slowly. In both children and adults, DDT and related compounds disrupt the metabolism of sex hormones, which has a detrimental effect on the formation of sexual characteristics in adolescents and on sexual function in adults.
ACIDS
Poisoning with acids (sulfuric, hydrochloric, nitric, a solution of zinc chloride in hydrochloric acid (soldering liquid), a mixture of nitric and hydrochloric acids ("regia vodka"), etc.) occurs when they are mistakenly ingested, usually in a state of alcohol or drug intoxication. All acids have a cauterizing effect. Sulfuric acid has the most destructive effect on tissue. Burns are found everywhere where the acid has come into contact with tissue - on the lips, face, mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach." Very concentrated acids can cause destruction of the stomach walls. When acids come into contact with the outer skin, they cause severe burns, which turn (especially in the case of nitric acid) into difficult-to-heal ulcers. Depending on the type of acid, burns (both internal and external) differ in color. In case of a burn with sulfuric acid - blackish, with hydrochloric acid - grayish-yellow, with nitric acid - a characteristic yellow color.
The victims complain of excruciating pain, they continue to vomit blood, breathing is difficult, swelling of the larynx and suffocation develop. In severe burns it occurs pain shock, which can cause death in the first hours (up to 24 hours) after poisoning. At a later date, death may occur from severe complications- severe internal bleeding, destruction of the walls of the esophagus and stomach, acute pancreatitis.
First aid is the same as for acetic acid poisoning.
DYES
The list of dyes and pigments used in everyday life and industry is growing every year. They are used for many different purposes - they are part of paints, they are used for tinting food products and medicines, in medicine and printing, for the production of ink and coloring pastes.
They contain almost all periodic table and are very dangerous if ingested in the form of dust or aerosol. When in contact with exposed parts of the body and eyes, dyes cause severe dermatoses and conjunctivitis. The latter also occur upon contact with painted objects. Dyes often contain very toxic compounds used in their synthesis: mercury, arsenic, etc. Many dyes are extremely insidious, causing cancer.
To prevent poisoning during painting work, it is necessary to use gloves, goggles, and, if possible, sealed overalls, not to eat or drink, and after painting, wash your hands thoroughly and wash your clothes. If paint gets on your skin, it must be removed immediately using suitable solvents (eg kerosene) or soapy water.
COPPER AND ITS SALT
Copper salts are widely used in the paint and varnish industry, in agriculture and everyday life to combat fungal diseases. In case of acute poisoning, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain immediately occur, jaundice and anemia develop, symptoms of acute liver and kidney failure are pronounced, and hemorrhages are observed in the stomach and intestines. The lethal dose is 1-2 g, but acute poisoning also occurs at doses of 0.2-0.5 g (depending on the type of salt). Acute poisoning also occurs when copper dust or copper oxide, which is obtained during grinding, welding and cutting products made of copper or copper-containing alloys, enters the body. The first signs of poisoning are irritation of the mucous membranes and a sweet taste in the mouth. A few hours later, as soon as the copper “dissolves” and is absorbed into the tissue, headache, weakness in the legs, redness of the conjunctiva of the eyes, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhea, severe chills with an increase in temperature to 38-39 degrees appear. Poisoning is also possible when dust from copper salts enters the body during crushing and pouring them for the purpose of preparing plant protection products (for example, Bordeaux mixture) or “treating” for building materials. When dry pickling grain with copper carbonate, after a few hours the temperature can rise to 39 degrees or higher, the victim shudders, sweat pours from him, he feels weak, aching pain in the muscles, he is tormented by a cough with green sputum (the color of copper salts), which lasts for a long time. persists even after the cessation of fever. Another poisoning scenario is also possible, when the victim gets slightly chilled in the evenings, and after some time develops acute attack- the so-called copper mordant fever, lasting 3-4 days.
In case of chronic poisoning with copper and its salts, work is disrupted nervous system, kidneys and liver, the nasal septum is destroyed, teeth are affected, severe dermatitis, gastritis and peptic ulcers occur. Every year of working with copper reduces life expectancy by almost 4 months. The skin of the face, hair and conjunctiva of the eyes turn greenish-yellow or greenish-black, and a dark red or purplish-red border appears on the gums. Copper dust causes destruction of the cornea of the eye.
Urgent Care. The same as for mercury poisoning.
DETERGENTS (WASHING POWDERS, SOAPS)
The incredible variety of detergents and soaps used in everyday life makes it impossible to create any general picture of poisoning by them. Their toxic effect also depends on the way they enter the body - through the respiratory system in the form of dust when poured or an aerosol when dissolved, through the mouth when accidentally ingested (this is typical for small children left near soaked underwear), in contact with skin during washing, with poorly rinsed clothes.
In case of contact with the mucous membranes of the eyes, conjunctivitis occurs, clouding of the cornea and inflammation of the iris are possible (see Alkalies). Inhalation may cause respiratory complications, including burns and pneumonia. In case of ingestion, work is disrupted digestive system, vomiting occurs, dangerous that the foam formed during it can enter the respiratory tract. IN severe cases The nervous system is affected, blood pressure decreases, and oxygen deficiency occurs. Constant contact with detergents leads to the development allergic dermatoses, in particular, urticaria. An additional danger is posed by counterfeit laundry detergents, which may contain the most unexpected toxic substances, so it is necessary to avoid purchasing uncertified products of dubious origin. So, some “homemade products” add bleach, which when it comes into contact with water begins to emit toxic chlorine (see Chlorine).
Urgent Care. If detergents come into contact with the mucous membranes of the eyes, rinse them with a strong stream of water. If taken orally, rinse the stomach with water, whole milk or an aqueous suspension of milk and egg whites. The victim is given plenty of fluids and mucous substances (starch, jelly). In severe cases, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
MERCURY AND ITS SALT
People's attitude towards mercury at all times was almost mystical - it was known to the ancient Romans and Greeks, and alchemists also preferred it. Already in those days they were well aware of its toxicity.
Mercury poisoning in our time is possible both through “entertainment” with mercury balls that fell out of a broken thermometer, and through poisoning with mercury-containing substances widely used in medicine, photography, pyrotechnics, and agriculture. The high danger of mercury itself is associated with its ability to evaporate (in laboratories and in production it is stored in specially equipped rooms under a layer of water).
The toxicity of mercury vapor is unusually high - poisoning can occur even at a concentration of just a fraction of a milligram per cubic meter. meter of air, and deaths are possible. Soluble mercury salts are even more poisonous, the lethal dose of which is only 0.2-0.5 g. In chronic poisoning, increased fatigue, weakness, drowsiness, indifference to the environment, headaches, dizziness, emotional excitability are observed - the so-called “mercury neurasthenia” . All this is accompanied by trembling ("mercury tremors"), covering the hands, eyelids and tongue, in severe cases - first the legs, and then the whole body. The poisoned person becomes shy, timid, fearful, depressed, extremely irritable, tearful, and his memory weakens. All this is the result of damage to the central nervous system. There is pain in the limbs, various neuralgia, and sometimes paresis ulnar nerve. Gradually, damage to other organs and systems occurs, chronic diseases worsen, and resistance to infections decreases (mortality from tuberculosis is very high among people in contact with mercury).
Diagnosing mercury poisoning is very difficult. They are hidden under the guise of diseases of the respiratory system or nervous system. In almost all cases, however, there is a fine and frequent trembling of the fingers of outstretched arms, and in many cases, trembling of the eyelids and tongue. Usually enlarged thyroid, gums bleed, sweating is pronounced. Women experience menstrual irregularities, and with long-term work, the frequency of miscarriages and premature births progressively increases. One of the important diagnostic criteria is significant changes in the blood formula.
Urgent Care. In the absence of special drugs that bind mercury (for example, unithiol), it is necessary to rinse the stomach with water with 20-30 g of activated carbon or other enterosorbent; protein water is also effective. Then you need to give milk, egg whites beaten with water, and laxatives.
Further treatment is carried out under the supervision of a doctor, especially since in cases of acute poisoning intensive care is required. Victims are advised to take a milk diet and take vitamins (including B1 and C).
PRYANIC ACID (CYANIDE)
Hydrocyanic acid and its salts, cyanides, are among the most toxic substances and cause severe poisoning both when taken orally and when inhaled. Hydrocyanic acid vapor has the smell of bitter almonds. Hydrocyanic acid and cyanides are widely used in the production of synthetic fibers, polymers, plexiglass, in medicine, for disinfection, rodent control, fumigation fruit trees. In addition, hydrocyanic acid is a chemical warfare agent. But you can also become poisoned in a completely harmless situation - as a result of eating grains of certain fruits, the seeds of which contain glycosides that release hydrocyanic acid in the stomach. So, 5-25 such seeds can contain a dose of cyanide that is lethal to small child. It is believed that a lethal dose of the cyanogenic glycoside amygdalin, amounting to only 1 g, is contained in 40 g of bitter almonds or in 100 g of peeled apricot kernels. Plum and cherry pits are dangerous.
There are often cases when, when consuming plum and other compotes with seeds not removed from the fruit, severe and sometimes fatal poisoning is observed.
Hydrocyanic acid and its salts are poisons that disrupt tissue respiration. A manifestation of a sharp decrease in the ability of tissues to consume the oxygen delivered to them is the scarlet color of the blood in the veins. As a result of oxygen starvation, the brain and central nervous system are primarily affected.
Poisoning with cyanide compounds manifests itself in increased breathing, decreased blood pressure, convulsions and coma. When large doses are taken, consciousness is immediately lost, convulsions occur and death occurs within a few minutes. This is the so-called fulminant form of poisoning. With a smaller amount of poison, gradual intoxication develops.
Emergency care and treatment. In case of poisoning, the victim should immediately be allowed to breathe amyl nitrite vapor (several minutes). When taking cyanides orally, it is necessary to rinse the stomach with a weak solution of potassium permanganate or a 5% solution of thiosulfate, and give a saline laxative. Intravenously administer sequentially a 1% solution of methylene blue and a 30% solution of sodium thiosulfate. In another option, sodium nitrite is administered intravenously (all operations are carried out under strict medical supervision and with blood pressure monitoring). Additionally, glucose with ascorbic acid, cardiovascular drugs, and B vitamins are administered. The use of pure oxygen has a good effect.
TEAR SUBSTANCES (LACHRIMATORS)
During the First World War, approximately 600 tons of lachrymators were used. Now they are used to disperse demonstrations and carry out special operations. In addition, lachrymators (from the Greek “lakryme” - tear) are the main type of substances pumped into cans for self-defense. The effect of these substances on the body is to irritate the mucous membranes of the eyes and nasopharynx, which leads to profuse lacrimation, spasms of the eyelids, and copious nasal discharge. These effects appear almost instantly - within a few seconds. Lachrymators irritate the nerve endings located in the conjunctiva and cornea of the eyes, and they cause a defensive reaction: the desire to wash away the irritant with tears and the closing of the eyelids, which can turn into a spasm. If you close your eyes, the tears are removed through the nose, mixing with secretions from the nose itself. Destruction of mucous membranes during exposure low concentrations tear gases do not occur, so after their effect ceases, all functions are restored. However, long-term use of lachrimators can lead to the development of photophobia, which lasts for several days.
The sequence of appearance of signs of damage depends on the type of lachrymator, its dose and method of application. First, there is mild irritation of the mucous membranes, slight lacrimation, then severe lacrimation with profuse discharge from the nose, pain in the eyes, spasm of the eyelids, and with prolonged poisoning - temporary blindness (when using lachrymators of blister action, partial or total loss vision). Direct contact with a strong jet of some types of lachrymators directly into the eyes is quite dangerous - this is the basis for the principle of the damaging effect of gas canisters. The most famous lachrymators are cyanogen chloride, which has been used as a chemical warfare agent since the first world war(since 1916), chloroacetophenone, widely used by the Americans in Vietnam and the Portuguese in Angola, bromobenzyl cyanide, chloropicrin. In addition to the lachrymatory effect, these substances also have a generally toxic (cyanchloride), asphyxiant (all lachrymators), and skin-vesicant (chloroacetophenone) effect.
Symptoms of the lesion quickly disappear when the action of the lachrimators is stopped. The condition is alleviated by washing the eyes with boric acid or albucid, and the nasopharynx with a weak (2%) solution of baking soda. In severe cases, strong analgesics are used - promedol, morphine, and a 1% solution of ethylmorphine is instilled into the eyes. It is necessary to take measures to remove droplets of low-volatile tear substances from the surface of the body and clothing into which they are intensively absorbed, otherwise poisoning may recur.
CARBON MONOXIDE (CARBON MOXIDE)
One of the most common sources of poisoning in everyday life. Formed due to improper use of gas, malfunction of chimneys or inept heating of stoves, as well as during heating of car interiors in winter time as a product of incomplete combustion of carbon and its compounds. Carbon monoxide content in car exhaust gases can reach 13%. In addition, it is formed by smoking and by burning household waste; its concentration is high near chemical and metallurgical plants.
The essence of poisoning lies in the fact that carbon monoxide replaces oxygen in the blood coloring matter hemoglobin and, thus, disrupts the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body tissues, resulting in their oxygen starvation. The picture of poisoning depends on the concentration of carbon monoxide in the air. When inhaling small quantities of it, heaviness and pressure are felt in the head, severe pain in the forehead and temples, tinnitus, fog in the eyes, dizziness, redness and burning of the facial skin, trembling, a feeling of weakness and fear, coordination of movements worsens, nausea and vomiting appear. . Further poisoning while maintaining consciousness leads to numbness of the victim, he weakens, is indifferent to his own fate, which is why he cannot leave the infection zone. Then confusion increases, intoxication intensifies, and the temperature rises to 38-40 degrees. In case of severe poisoning, when the content of hemoglobin associated with carbon monoxide in the blood reaches 50-60%, consciousness is lost, and the functioning of the nervous system is seriously disrupted: hallucinations, delirium, convulsions, and paralysis develop. The feeling of pain is lost early - those poisoned by carbon monoxide, not yet losing consciousness, do not notice the burns they receive.
Memory weakens, sometimes to such an extent that the victim ceases to recognize loved ones, and the circumstances that caused the poisoning are completely erased from his memory. Breathing becomes disordered - shortness of breath appears, which can last for hours or even days and end in death from respiratory arrest. Death from suffocation in acute carbon monoxide poisoning can occur almost instantly.
In severe cases, after recovery, the “memory” of poisoning “remains” and can manifest itself in the form of fainting and psychosis, decreased intelligence, and strange behavior. Paralysis of the cranial nerves and paresis of the limbs are possible. Intestinal and bladder dysfunctions take a very long time to resolve. The organs of vision are severely affected. Even a single poisoning reduces accuracy visual perception space, color and night vision, its acuity. Even after mild poisoning myocardial infarction, gangrene of the extremities and other deadly complications may develop.
With long-term chronic carbon monoxide poisoning, a whole “bouquet” of symptoms develops, indicating damage to both the nervous system and other organs and systems of the body. Memory and attention decrease, fatigue and irritability increase, obsessive fear and melancholy appear, discomfort in the region of the heart, shortness of breath. The skin becomes bright red, coordination of movements is impaired, fingers tremble. After a year and a half of “close contact” with carbon monoxide, persistent disturbances in cardiovascular activity occur, and heart attacks are frequent. The endocrine system suffers. Sexual disorders are typical for men, in some cases there is severe pain in the testicular area, sperm are inactive, which ultimately can result in infertility. In women, sexual desire decreases and menstrual cycle, possible premature birth, abortions. Even after single carbon monoxide poisoning during pregnancy, the fetus can die, although the woman herself can endure it without visible consequences. If poisoned in the first three months of pregnancy, fetal deformities or the subsequent development of cerebral palsy are possible.
Urgent Care. The victim must be immediately taken out in a lying position (even if he can move on his own) into fresh air, freed from clothing that restricts breathing (unfasten the collar, belt), give the body a comfortable position, provide him with peace and warmth (for this you can use heating pads, mustard plasters, legs). Caution is needed when using heating pads, as the victim may not feel the burn. In mild cases of poisoning, give coffee or strong tea. Relieve nausea and vomiting with a 0.5% solution of novocaine (inside teaspoons). Subcutaneously inject camphor, caffeine, cordiamine, glucose, ascorbic acid. In case of severe poisoning, use oxygen as quickly as possible; in this case, intensive care in a hospital setting is necessary.
ACETIC ACID (VINEGAR)
The most common cause of burns and poisoning is the vinegar essence used in everyday life - an 80% solution of acetic acid. However, they can also be obtained from 30% acid. Both its 2% solution and its vapor are dangerous for the eyes.
Immediately after taking vinegar essence arises sharp pain in the mouth, throat and along the way digestive tract depending on the extent of the burn. The pain intensifies when swallowing or passing food and lasts more than a week. A stomach burn, in addition to sharp pain in the epigastric region, is accompanied by painful vomiting mixed with blood. When the essence gets into the larynx, in addition to pain, hoarseness of the voice appears, with massive swelling - difficulty, wheezing, the skin turns blue, possible suffocation. When taking 15-30 ml, a mild form of poisoning occurs, 30-70 ml - moderate, and when 70 ml and above - severe, with frequent deaths. Death can occur on the first or second day after poisoning due to burn shock, hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells) and other intoxication phenomena (40% of cases). On the third to fifth days after poisoning, the cause of death is most often pneumonia (45% of cases), and in longer periods (6-11 days) - bleeding from the digestive tract (up to 2% of cases). In acute poisoning, the causes of death are acute renal and liver failure (12% of cases).
First aid. In case of contact with the eyes, immediately, for a long time (15-20 minutes) and abundantly (with a stream) rinse them with tap water, then instill 1-2 drops of a 2% solution of novocaine. Subsequently, instillation of antibiotics (for example, 0.25% solution of chloramphenicol).
Irritation of the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract can be eliminated by rinsing the nose and throat with water, inhalation of a 2% soda solution. A warm drink (milk with soda or Borjomi) is recommended. In case of contact with skin, rinse immediately with plenty of water. You can use soap or a weak solution (0.5-1%) of alkali. Treat the burn site with disinfectant solutions, for example, furatsilin.
In case of poisoning by mouth - immediate gastric lavage cold water(12-15 l) using a thick probe lubricated vegetable oil. You can add milk or egg white to the water. Soda and laxatives should not be used. If gastric lavage cannot be done, then the victim should be given 3-5 glasses of water to drink and induce vomiting artificially (by inserting a finger into the mouth). This procedure is repeated 3-4 times.
Emetics are contraindicated. Beaten egg whites, starch, mucous decoctions, and milk are given internally. It is recommended to swallow pieces of ice and place an ice pack on the stomach. To eliminate pain and prevent shock, strong analgesics (promedol, morphine) are administered. In a hospital setting they carry out intensive care and symptomatic treatment.
ALKALI
Poisoning with caustic alkalis (caustic soda, caustic potassium, caustic soda), as well as ammonia (ammonia) occurs both through erroneous ingestion and improper use. For example, ammonia is sometimes used to eliminate alcohol intoxication (which is completely wrong), resulting in severe poisoning. Poisoning with soda solutions is even more common. When regular baking soda is dissolved in boiling water, it begins to bubble due to the release of carbon dioxide. The reaction of the solution becomes highly alkaline, and rinsing the mouth or swallowing such a concentrated solution can lead to severe poisoning. In this case, children often suffer, often swallowing soda solutions. Poisoning often occurs when dosages and times of taking alkaline medications for the treatment of peptic ulcers and gastritis associated with increased acidity of gastric juice are not observed.
All caustic alkalis have a very powerful cauterizing effect, and ammonia is especially harsh. irritating effect. They penetrate deeper than acids (see Acids) into tissues, forming loose necrotic ulcers covered with whitish or gray scabs. As a result of their ingestion, severe thirst, salivation, and bloody vomiting appear. A severe painful shock develops, from which death can occur in the first hours as a result of burns and swelling of the pharynx, and suffocation can develop.? After poisoning, a lot of side effects develop, almost all organs and tissues are affected, and massive internal bleeding, the integrity of the wall of the esophagus and stomach is compromised, which leads to peritonitis and can be fatal. In case of ammonia poisoning, due to a sharp excitation of the central nervous system, the respiratory center is depressed, and edema of the lungs and brain develops. Fatalities are very common. At joint use alcohol and ammonia, supposedly intended for sobering up, the toxic effects of both poisons are summed up and the picture of poisoning becomes even more severe.
First aid is the same as for acid poisoning, with the exception of the composition of the gastric lavage liquid: in order to neutralize alkalis and ammonia, use a 2% solution of citric or acetic acid. You can use water or whole milk. If it is impossible to rinse the stomach through a tube, then you need to drink weak solutions citric or acetic acid.
A serious problem is superficial burns caused by alkalis (which happens much more often than poisoning after ingestion). In this case, long-term non-healing ulcers occur. At permanent job with alkalis, the skin softens, the stratum corneum of the skin on the hands is gradually removed (this condition is called “washerwoman’s hands”), eczema occurs, the nails become dull and peel off from the nail bed. Getting even the smallest drops of alkaline solutions into the eyes is dangerous - not only the cornea is affected, but also the deep parts of the eye. The outcome is usually tragic - blindness, and vision is practically not restored. This must be taken into account when inhaling soda solutions, especially concentrated and hot ones.
In case of contact with skin, wash the affected area with a stream of water for 10 minutes, then apply lotions of a 5% solution of vinegar, saline or citric acid. In case of contact with eyes, rinse thoroughly with a stream of water for 10-30 minutes. Washing should be repeated in the future, for which very weak acidic solutions can be used. If ammonia gets into the eyes, after washing them, instill them with a 1% solution boric acid or 30% albucide solution.
CHLORINE
Fate confronts a person with this extremely dangerous gas more often than one would like. One of the most common reagents in chemical industry, it penetrates into our everyday lives in the form of chlorinated water, bleaching and detergents, and disinfectants such as bleach (bleach). If acid accidentally enters the latter, a rapid release of chlorine begins in quantities sufficient to cause severe poisoning.
High concentrations of chlorine can cause instant death due to paralysis of the respiratory center. The victim begins to quickly choke, his face turns blue, he rushes about, tries to escape, but immediately falls, loses consciousness, his pulse gradually disappears. In case of poisoning with slightly smaller quantities, breathing resumes after a short stop, but becomes convulsive, the pauses between respiratory movements become longer and longer, until after a few minutes the victim dies from respiratory arrest due to severe burns to the lungs.
In everyday life, poisoning with very low concentrations of chlorine or chronic poisoning occurs due to constant contact with substances that release active chlorine. A mild form of poisoning is characterized by redness of the conjunctiva and oral cavity, bronchitis, sometimes slight emphysema, shortness of breath, hoarseness, and often vomiting. Pulmonary edema rarely develops.
Chlorine can stimulate the development of tuberculosis. With chronic contact, the respiratory organs are primarily affected, gums become inflamed, teeth and nasal septum are destroyed, and gastrointestinal disorders occur.
Urgent Care. First of all, you need clean air, peace, and warmth. Immediate hospitalization for severe and moderate forms of poisoning. For irritation of the upper respiratory tract, inhalation of a sprayed 2% solution of sodium thiosulfate, soda or borax solutions. Eyes, nose and mouth should be washed with a 2% soda solution. It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids - milk with Borjom or soda, coffee. For persistent painful cough, codeine or mustard plasters taken orally or intravenously. When the glottis is narrowed, warm alkaline inhalations, warming the neck area, and a subcutaneous 0.1% atropine solution are necessary.
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