Pesticide poisoning

Poisoning by exposure to pesticides may occur shortly after a single exposure (acute poisoning) or gradually after repeated exposures over a period of time (chronic poisoning).

Acute poisoning from pesticides

Symptoms of acute poisoning from pesticides may begin shortly after exposure and may include:

• headache
• dizziness
• nausea
• vomiting
• stomach cramps
• diarrhoea
• blurred vision
• excessive eye watering
• sweating
• excess saliva.

More severe poisoning may also lead to changes in heart rate, chest tightness, muscle weakness and twitching, difficulty breathing and walking, constricted pupils and incontinence. In very severe cases of poisoning, seizures and unconsciousness may occur.

Chronic poisoning from pesticide

Symptoms may occur gradually, after repeated exposures over a period of time, and may include:

• muscle weakness
• fatigue
• difficulty concentrating and remembering things
• generally feeling unwell.

The type of symptoms you have, how long they last and how severe they are may vary depending on factors such as:

• the type and concentration of the pesticide used
• the degree of exposure
• the health and age of the person exposed.

Many of the potential symptoms are not specific to pesticide poisoning – they may be due to other conditions, such as illness or allergy. You should always consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis of symptoms.