Topic: poisoning, sedative overdose, hanging
Question: Describe in detail the signs and symptoms of Datura poisoning.
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Symptoms:
– Delirium, confusion and bizarre behavior arise from the anticholinergic neurological effects.
– Hallucinations are caused by the antimuscarinic action on the corticolimbic pathways in the brain.
– Dry mouth, blurred vision and difficulty swallowing occur due to reduced salivary and lacrimal secretions.
– Nausea and vomiting are caused by stimulation of the chemoreceptor trigger zone.
– Abdominal pain results from reduced gut motility.
Signs:
– Dilated pupils occur because Datura blocks muscarinic receptors in the eye, preventing pupillary constriction.
– Flushed skin and increased body temperature happen due to anticholinergic inhibition of sweating and heat dissipation.
– Tachycardia is caused by Datura stimulating sympathetic nervous system and cardiac muscarinic receptor blockade.
– Urinary retention occurs due to the anticholinergic effect on bladder muscle contraction.
– Seizures result from the alkaloids’ action on central nervous system receptors.
– Coma in severe cases is caused by profound CNS depression.
The major signs of Datura poisoning involve physiological effects like dilated pupils, tachycardia, flushed skin, seizures etc.
The symptoms are more subjective effects reported by the patient like delirium, hallucinations, nausea, blurred vision etc. Both signs and symptoms indicate anticholinergic toxidrome due to Datura poisoning.
Seeking urgent medical care and supportive therapy is essential for managing Datura poisoning. Atropine can reverse some of the muscarinic effects of Datura alkaloids.
