Detergent Pod Poisoning On The Rise In Alabama
Alabama Poison Control officials say the number of children who ingest laundry detergent pods on the rise.
Northport Fire Rescue posted a warning to parents on their Facebook page stating that the Regional Poison Control Center in Birmingham has received 714 calls related to the colorful detergent packets being eaten.
According to Toxicologist and Poison Control Center director, Ann Slattery said most children under the age of six who have eaten the pods have symptoms that require Emergency treatment.
The first symptoms of detergent ingestion are nausea and vomiting. Other symptoms could include burns to the eyes, wheezing, gasping for breath, drowsiness and increased heart rate.
The poison control center has reported 83 calls related to detergent exposure since May 15, 2016 compared to 2012 when only one call was received. In 2015, the center received 250 calls, 220 calls in 2014 and 136 calls in 2013.
According to Slattery, the majority of calls to the poison control occur in the summer when children are out of school.