Mothball Poisoning: Recognizing Symptoms & Seeking Immediate Help

Mothballs are a pesticide and their ingredients can be harmful to humans and pets. If mothballs are ingested or inhaled, there is a danger of serious illness. Some effects are obvious at once, while others can take longer to develop.

Instructions

• 1

  Try to determine whether a person or pet has been in contact with mothballs. If you suspect that a child or pet has eaten mothballs, do not wait for symptoms. Seek medical help immediately.

• 2

  Watch for signs of eye, nose, throat and lung irritation, respiratory problems, vertigo, confusion, headache, nausea, vomiting and/or fatigue.

• 3

  Look for convulsions within an hour of when mothballs are ingested.

• 4

  Investigate any liver or kidney problems, or be suspicious if hemolytic anemia develops.

• 5

  Call the national Poison Control Center, 1-800-222-1222, or a local center, if you suspect mothball poisoning.

• 6

  Keep in mind that long-term exposure to mothball vapors can cause adverse effects. If an elderly person or her house reeks of mothballs, warn her of the risks of mothball poisoning.