Dirt - swallowing
Definition
This is poisoning from swallowing or eating dirt.
Poisonous Ingredient
There are no particular poisonous ingredients unless the dirt contains contaminants such as insecticides, herbicides, fertilizers, parasites, and waste.
Where Found
- Dirt
Symptoms
Swallowing dirt may cause constipation and intestinal obstruction, which results in stomach pain.
Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following information:
- Patient's age, weight, and condition
- 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 United States 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.
What to Expect at the Emergency Room
The patient may not need to visit an emergency room. If the person goes to the hospital, treatment may include:
- Medicines to treat the symptoms
Outlook (Prognosis)
Recovery is very likely unless the dirt contains something that can cause complications.
References
Callahan GN. Eating dirt. Emerg Infect Dis. 2003;9(8):1016-1021.
Davis S, Mirick DK. Soil ingestion in children and adults in the same family. J Expo Sci Environ Epidemiol. 2006;16(1):63-75.
Reviewed By: Stephen C. Acosta, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
