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Rhubarb leaves poisoning

Definition

This is poisoning caused by eating pieces of leaves from the rhubarb plant.

Alternative Names

Poisonous Ingredient

Soluble oxalate and another, unknown poison

Where Found

The leaves (leaf blade) of the rhubarb plant. The stalk can be eaten.

Symptoms

• Weakness
• Burning in the mouth
• Breathing difficulty
• Burning in the throat
• Eye pain
• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Coma
• Seizures
• Red colored urine
• Kidney stones

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• Patient's age, weight, and condition
• Name of the plant, if known  
• Time it was swallowed
• 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.

Bring the plant with you to the emergency room, 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:

• Medicines to make the person throw up
• Medicines to treat symptoms
• Activated charcoal
• A nasogastric (NG) tube thru the nose into the stomach to empty the stomach (gastric lavage)  

Outlook (Prognosis)

Deaths have been reported, but are rare.

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.