Pesticide poisoning symptoms can mimic flu

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Pesticide poisoning can be confused with common illnesses like the flu.

“Pesticides include chemicals used to control weeds (herbicides), insects (insecticides), rodents (rodenticides) or fungi (fungicides). If the word ends in ‘ide,’ it is likely a pesticide that can poison you if used incorrectly,” says Rusty Lee who teaches pesticide courses for University of Missouri Extension.

Most pesticides pose little risk when used according to label instructions. But farmers and others who handle pesticides this spring should consider that they may be suffering from pesticide poisoning if they become ill after usage, says Lee.

Pesticide poisoning symptoms mimic flu symptoms such as headaches, body aches and diarrhea. But symptoms can last longer and be more severe. Onset can occur immediately or be delayed until weeks after exposure. Some studies link Parkinson’s disease to pesticide poisoning. Tumors, miscarriages and breathing difficulties are among the long-term side effects. Pesticide exposure can present as an unexplained sulfur smell or a bitter taste.

The farming community is at the most risk for exposure, but home gardeners also face risk, says Lee. Residue left on lawns, plants, soil or spray equipment can present risks.

Many factors play into poisoning including the type of pesticide, strength of pesticide and how the pesticide entered the body.

Immediate pesticide poisoning symptoms include:

• Neurological. Headaches, dizziness, weakness, fatigue, muscle twitching, trembling and mental confusion.
• Gastrointestinal. Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and diarrhea.
• Respiratory. Difficulty breathing, cough, chest discomfort and excessive secretions from the mouth and nose.
• Dermal/ocular. Skin irritation, rashes, excessive sweating and eye irritation.

Long-term problems can result from low levels of pesticide exposure over time. These include cancers, brain and nervous symptom damage, and birth defects, miscarriages and other fertility issues.

If you have immediate injury, take the label on the pesticide jug with you to the emergency room. Do not take the plastic jug, just the label, says Lee. The label will help emergency personnel know how to treat you.

If you suspect pesticide poisoning, call the National Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. This number will direct your call to the nearest poison center, which is staffed on a 24-hour basis. Reach the Missouri Poison Center at 800-222-1222.