Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
b.
Avoiding Allergic Effects
Depending on how severe the allergic reaction is, persons with allergies to
certain pesticides may have to stop handling or working with those pesticides.
They may be unable to tolerate even slight exposures. Sometimes persons
with allergies to certain pesticides can continue to work in situations where
those pesticides are present by reducing their exposure to them.
D.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HARMFUL EFFECTS
Watch for two kinds of clues to pesticide-related illness or injury. Some
clues are symptoms/reactions that only the person who has been poisoned can
notice, such as nausea or headache. Others clues, like vomiting or fainting,
can be noticed by someone else. You should know:
•
what your own symptoms might mean
•
what signs of poisoning to look for in your co-workers and others
who may have been exposed.
Many of the signs and symptoms of pesticide poisoning are similar to
signs and symptoms of other illnesses you might experience, such as the flu
or even a hangover. If you have been working with pesticides and then de-
velop suspicious signs and symptoms, call your physician or poison control
center. Only a physician can diagnose pesticide poisoning injuries.
External irritants
cause:
•
redness, blisters, rash, and/or burns on skin
•
swelling, a stinging sensation, and/or burns in eyes, nose, mouth,
and throat.
Pesticide poisoning
may cause:
•
nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and/ or stomach cramps
•
headache, dizziness, weakness, and/or confusion
•
excessive sweating, chills, and/ or thirst
•
chest pains
•
difficult breathing
•
cramps in muscles or aches all over your body.
