1. Check for a Metallic Taste in the Mouth
Acute poisoning from arsenic typically begins with a taste of metal and an odor similar to garlic on the victim's breath. It may also cause a dry mouth and difficulty swallowing. If you work around arsenic or you suspect that arsenic poisoning is a possibility in your environment, get the victim clear of the area when these symptoms appear. If the poisoning is serious, he will get worse very quickly.
2. Look for Stomach Pains and Headaches
Minor symptoms of arsenic poisoning will include headaches, dizziness and feelings of vertigo in minor cases of arsenic poisoning. More serious cases will involve nausea, stomach cramps, pain in the abdomen, discolored urine and bloody diarrhea. Dehydration may occur from the loss of fluids due to vomiting or watery stools. If the arsenic was ingested, the liver and kidneys will likely suffer damage as well. The inability of those organs to process waste can pollute the blood and cause other problems. Convulsions, comas and death will likely follow if the arsenic poisoning is left untreated.
3. Watch for Chills Caused by Exposure to Arsine Gas
Arsine gas is a common means of exposure to arsenic, usually in industrial accidents or similar work-related mishaps. Victims often report feeling chills and having the shakes in addition to the other symptoms of arsenic poisoning.
4. Check for Symptoms of Chronic Poisoning
Chronic arsenic poisoning takes place after prolonged exposure to arsenic over a lengthy period of time. It is tougher to diagnose than acute arsenic poisoning, which has symptoms that appear very quickly. Chronic arsenic poisoning can show itself in dark or light spots on the skin, keratosis developing on the hands or feet and white lines called Mees' lines on the fingernails. Chronic exposure can also lead to cancerous tumors inside the body as well as further damage to the liver, kidneys and other internal organs. Bowen's disease, hyperkeratosis and other malignant skin conditions may develop as well. People who work around arsenic or who run the risk of long-term exposure to it should get regular checkups and report any symptoms of chronic poisoning to their doctors.
