Copper Poisoning: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment - A Comprehensive Guide

Copper is a common element and although the pure metal is not poisonous, many of its compounds are. These compounds are produced by the action of stomach fluids on copper when it is ingested. The most common sources of poisonous copper include blue vitriol, copper sulfate and verdigris. The treatment for copper poisoning consists of a complex multi-stage approach.

Instructions

• 1

  Look for symptoms of copper poisoning. Physical contact with copper can turn the hair and skin green. Swallowing copper can cause multiple symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting. Other signs include dizziness, cramps and convulsions in cases of high exposure.

• 2

  Withdraw the source of copper, especially in cases of prolonged exposure. Physical contact with large quantities of copper is an occupational hazard in various metalworking and construction jobs. Common sources of accidental exposure include aquarium products, fungicides and insecticides.

• 3

  Administer large amounts of egg whites for cases of rapid copper poisoning. The albumen in the egg white can combine with copper to make a harmless compound. Milk can have a similar effect if egg whites are not available.

• 4

  Induce vomiting unless the patient is convulsing or unconscious. In these cases, it may be necessary to use a nasogastric tube to empty the stomach by gastric lavage. Ingesting activated charcoal also is effective in treating copper poisoning. Prolonged exposure may require dialysis.

• 5

  Treat the symptoms of copper poisoning. This usually consists of a milk diet with drugs for the pain and diarrhea.