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Lavender oil

Definition

This is poisoning from swallowing lavender oil.

Poisonous Ingredient

Lavender oil

Where Found

• In some perfumes
• Used as a flavoring agent

Symptoms

• Lungs
  • Difficulty breathing (from inhalation or allergic reaction)
• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  • Burning pain in the throat
  • Blurred vision
  • Burns to the eye
• Skin
  • Rash
• Gastrointestinal
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea (watery, bloody)

Home Care

With any toxic exposure or allergic reaction, seek emergency medical care immediately. Call Poison Control for guidance.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following:

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

Poison Control

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the U.S. use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.

See National Poison Control center.

What to Expect at the Emergency Room

The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. The patient may receive:

• Fluids by IV
• Medicines to treat symptoms
• Activated charcoal
• Medicines to treat an  allergic reaction (diphenhydramine, prednisone)

Outlook (Prognosis)

Lavender oil is generally non-poisonous when breathed in during aromatherapy or swallowed. The major effects are due to allergic reactions of the skin. A patient makes a good recovery.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.