Suspect aspirin overdose? Immediately call emergency services (911 in the US, 999 in the UK, or your local equivalent).
While waiting for help, take these steps:
- Check vital signs: Monitor breathing and heart rate. Note any changes and relay this information to emergency responders. Induce vomiting: Unless advised otherwise by medical professionals, do NOT induce vomiting. This can cause further complications. Administer activated charcoal: This may be given by paramedics to help absorb the aspirin. Do not attempt this yourself. Gather information: Note the amount of aspirin ingested, the time of ingestion, and any other medications the person may have taken. This will help medical professionals provide the best care.
Hospital management focuses on these key areas:
Supportive care: This involves maintaining airway, breathing, and circulation. Intravenous fluids are commonly used. Gastric lavage: This procedure involves washing out the stomach, but its use is declining due to limited effectiveness. Alkalinization of urine: This speeds up aspirin excretion. Hemodialysis: Severe cases may require hemodialysis to remove aspirin from the blood. Symptom management: This involves addressing specific complications like metabolic acidosis, bleeding, or seizures, with appropriate medications and treatments.
Prognosis depends on several factors including the amount ingested, the time elapsed since ingestion, and the individual’s overall health. Early intervention significantly improves outcomes.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek professional medical attention for any health concerns.
