Datura
Poisoning
Datura poisoning is the third commonest poisons in India. 'Datura' or thorn-apple is
common in India and the crushed seeds are administered in food and drink by criminals,
with intent to rob rather than to kill.
Symptoms:
Are those of Belladona poisoning, coming on fairly rapidly after intake of poison. Dryness
of throat, flushing of face with a hot dry skin and widely dilated and fixed pupils are
typical signs. Difficulty in swallowing occurs with restlessness. Purposeless movement
with muttering delirium, lead on to a condition of coma, with death from failure of heart
and respiration. The pupils remain widely dilated throughout, and for days after recovery
which may take place.
Treatment:
- Give an emetic.
- Prevent hypnosis by flicking with
towels or cold douching.
- Apply, warmth and artificial
respiration, if necessary.
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