View All Allergies and the Immune System Articles

Zinc Poisoning

What is zinc poisoning?

Zinc is an important mineral required for a number of functions involving energy and metabolism. It is critical in supporting the immune system, which protects us from pathogens, infections, and disease. Zinc also plays a role in carbohydrate breakdown (process that supplies energy), as well as in cell growth, division and reproduction.

Zinc Poisoning Spotlight

Zinc is also a metal with many common industrial applications, such as in paints, cleaners, solvents, and other construction materials. Zinc can also be found in rubber, varnish, dyes, and rust-proofing agents. Exposure to significant amounts of zinc can be extremely hazardous and result in poisoning. Overconsumption of zinc supplements can also cause zinc poisoning.

Symptoms of zinc poisoning are extremely serious and include convulsions and seizures, fever, aches and pains, shock, fainting, a persistent taste of metal, inability to urinate, rash, low blood pressure, and vomiting.

Zinc poisoning is a potentially life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) for serious symptoms, such as vomiting, seizure, inability to urinate, or difficulty breathing.

SYMPTOMS

What are the symptoms of zinc poisoning?

Symptoms of zinc poisoning can be very serious and warrant immediate medical attention. These symptoms tend to be generalized (involving your entire body) and can make you feel very sick.... Read more about zinc poisoning symptoms

CAUSES

What causes zinc poisoning?

Zinc poisoning occurs when there are toxic levels of zinc in the body. Zinc is commonly found in paints, metals, cleaners, solvents, and other construction materials. Other common materials and products containing zinc include rubber, varnish, dyes, and rust-proofing agents. You can also develop zinc poisoning through overconsumption of zinc supplements.... Read more about zinc poisoning causes

TREATMENTS

How is zinc poisoning treated?

As zinc poisoning is a serious, potentially life-threatening condition, it is vitally important to seek immediate medical attention if you have symptoms you believe may be associated with zinc poisoning. Call the American Association of Poison Control Centers (1-800-222-1222) if you or someone you are with has been exposed to zinc and shows signs of poisoning. It is helpful to be able to identify the source of the zinc, whether through exposure or ingestion, as well as the estimated time and level of exposure. Treatment will focus on stabilizing the patient, supporting breathing and circulation, and may also involve measures... Read more about zinc poisoning treatments

UP NEXT ›› Symptoms
Medical Reviewer: All content has been reviewed by board-certified physicians under the direction of Rich Klasco, M.D., FACEP. Last Annual Review Date: May 2, 2011 Copyright: © Copyright 2011 Health Grades, Inc. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced or reprinted without permission from Health Grades, Inc. Use of this information is governed by the HealthGrades User Agreement.

More on Better Medicine

More Information on Allergies and the Immune System

Expert Advice from Harvard Medical School
RA/Achy Hands ›

This Article is Filed Under: Allergies and the Immune System

Top Features: Allergies and the Immune System


Popular Allergies and the Immune System Slide Shows

Allergy and Immune System Quizzes


Health News Today

Feed