Poisons and Antidotes: An A-to-Z Guide. Protect Yourself from Toxic Animals, Plants, Household Substances, and More

This is a complete guide to all types of poisons, how they work, and the antidotes that counteract them. Even with all the advances in medical science today, poisons still remain a serious health risk. Every year approximately 10 million cases of poisoning occur, with nearly 80 percent of them involving children under the age of 5. Poisoning is the fourth most common cause of death among children. Because many poisonings are accidental, simple safety measures - such as keeping harmful substances out of reach of children - can help prevent them. "Poisons and Antidotes: An A-to-Z Guide" reflects the most recent developments in the world of toxicology. Nearly 600 up-to-date entries detail poisonous substances ranging from common household items to exotic plants and animals. Entries describe the nature of the toxin, the symptoms it causes, and available antidotes and treatments. Special topics covered include children and poisons, first aid for poisoning victims, food poisoning, and pets and poisons. New and updated entries include: Bisphenol; Common medications; Daffodils; Flunitrazepam; Hormone disruptors; Household plants; Mold; Poison safety at home; Polonium-210; Responding to a poisoning; Recognizing poisonous animals and plants; and, Sick building syndrome. Appendixes include current information about home testing kits, hotlines, organizations, newsletters, regional poison control centers, and more.