Zinc Poisoning

Symptoms of zinc poisoning can be very serious and warrant immediate medical attention. These symptoms tend to be generalized (involving your entire body) and can make you feel very sick.

Common symptoms of zinc poisoning include:

• Aches and pains
• Diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing
• Fainting or change in level of consciousness
• Fever and chills
• Inability to urinate
• Metallic taste
• Seizures
• Shock
• Vomiting
• Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)

In some cases, zinc poisoning can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:

• Convulsions
• Difficulty breathing
• Fainting or change in level of consciousness
• Inability to urinate
• Persistent vomiting
• Seizure
• Shock
• Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)

Zinc poisoning occurs when there are toxic levels of zinc in the body. Zinc is commonly found in paints, metals, cleaners, solvents, and other construction materials. Other common materials and products containing zinc include rubber, varnish, dyes, and rust-proofing agents. You can also develop zinc poisoning through overconsumption of zinc supplements.

Your risk for zinc poisoning can be due to a variety of factors. Not all people with risk factors will get zinc poisoning. Risk factors for zinc poisoning include:

• Excessive consumption of zinc supplements or a daily diet that exceeds recommended daily requirements

• Exposure to toxic chemicals including paint, lead, industrial chemicals and cleaners, solvents, rubber, metal fumes, varnish, and antirust products

You can significantly reduce your risk of zinc poisoning though proper handling, use and storage of hazardous chemicals and other materials containing zinc. Another helpful step is to become acquainted with the minimum daily requirements for zinc in your diet. Zinc poisoning is a very dangerous, potentially life-threatening condition and, while treatable, is best avoided through basic preventive measures.

You may be able to lower your risk of zinc poisoning by:

• Ensuring paints, varnishes, and other chemicals are properly put away after use

• Ensuring proper storage of products containing zinc

• Limiting your exposure to paints, rubber products, industrial solvents, and other chemicals known to contain zinc

• Reading and following dosing instructions for vitamins and minerals containing zinc

As zinc poisoning is a serious, potentially life-threatening condition, it is vitally important to seek immediate medical attention if you have symptoms you believe may be associated with zinc poisoning. Call the American Association of Poison Control Centers (1-800-222-1222) if you or someone you are with has been exposed to zinc and shows signs of poisoning. It is helpful to be able to identify the source of the zinc, whether through exposure or ingestion, as well as the estimated time and level of exposure. Treatment will focus on stabilizing the patient, supporting breathing and circulation, and may also involve measures to remove the zinc from the body.

Failure to seek immediate treatment for suspected zinc poisoning can result in serious or even life-threatening potential complications. If treated immediately, you are much more likely to make a full recovery from zinc poisoning, particularly if symptoms are mild and exposure to the toxin was low. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by seeking immediate medical attention and following the treatment plan you and your health care professional design specifically for you. Complications of zinc poisoning include:

• Brain damage
• Organ failure
• Shock
• Unconsciousness and coma