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Cyanide Poisoning

Cyanide is a fast-acting poison that can be fatal within minutes by inhibiting cellular respiration.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Cyanide Poisoning?

Cyanide is a highly toxic compound that blocks cytochrome c oxidase enzyme in mitochondria, preventing cells from using oxygen. Exposure can occur via industrial accidents, fire smoke inhalation, burning of certain plastics, and amygdalin-containing plants such as bitter almonds and apricot seeds.

Symptoms affect the respiratory, cardiovascular, and central nervous systems; dizziness, shortness of breath, convulsions, and cardiac arrest can develop in a short time. At high-dose exposure, death can occur within minutes.

Treatment includes rapid administration of antidotes such as hydroxocobalamin or sodium thiosulfate and supportive intensive care measures. The exposed person must be moved to fresh air immediately and emergency services called.

Symptoms

Sudden headache, dizziness, and confusion
Shortness of breath and rapid breathing
Cherry-red skin and mucosal color
Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
Convulsions and loss of consciousness
Hypotension, bradycardia, and cardiac arrest

Risk Factors

Working in metal plating, mining, and paint industries
Fire and confined-space smoke inhalation
Consumption of foods containing amygdalin such as bitter almonds and apricot seeds
Working with cyanide compounds in laboratory and research settings
Some suicide attempts
Chemical terrorism and industrial accident exposure

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Anyone with shortness of breath after fire smoke inhalation should call emergency
  • Apply to emergency for sudden loss of consciousness and seizures
  • Emergency presentation is essential even when asymptomatic with known cyanide exposure
  • Multiple triage is required when more than one person has symptoms in industrial accidents

Treatment Methods

01
Emergency call and moving the patient to fresh air
02
High-flow 100% oxygen support
03
Hydroxocobalamin (Cyanokit) intravenous antidote administration
04
Sodium thiosulfate and sodium nitrite combination
05
Cardiopulmonary support, intensive care monitoring
06
Lactate, arterial blood gas, and carboxyhemoglobin monitoring

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.