People over age 60 often ask why they should be concerned about poisons or when they should call a poison control center.
Here are some common questions:
Are people over age 60 more susceptible to poisons?
Adults that take multiple medications or have chronic diseases have a higher risk for illness after a poisoning and experience more serious problems than any other age group.
What poison situations are common in older adults?
Medication mistakes
Food poisoning
Inhaling toxic fumes
How can adults reduce their risks of poisoning?
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Make sure your home fuel-burning heating system is checked each year. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a hazard to anyone, but especially to people with heart disease. CO is produced by fuel-burning appliances. Get your furnace checked each year for proper exhaust. Keep portable generators and charcoal grills in open areas outside your home and away from windows.
How does Tennessee Poison Center help older adults?
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Through the Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222). Registered nurses, pharmacists and physicians with poison management expertise give advice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Callers find relief in getting answers for their specific concern within minutes. Its great to be reassured even if the poisoning was just a minor problem. Many seniors call about medication concerns when their pharmacist or physician cant be reached.
* Reprinted with information compiled by the Florida Poison Information Centers.