Best Hawaii Toxicologists

Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, Poison Sumac
Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are plants that cause a rash in those allergic to them. This rash is caused by a chemical in the sap. About 50%-70% of people are sensitized to this chemical and are, therefore, allergic. Virtually everyone will eventually become sensitized if repeatedly exposed.

Lead Poisoning
In adults, lead poisoning happens when levels of lead in the blood become elevated. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that workplaces take action when a worker's blood lead level exceeds 25 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL). Because lead is so common in the environment, most adults have some level of this metal in their blood and body tissue.

Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is a disease that is carried or transmitted to humans by contaminated foods or beverages.



Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide poisoning is can be a deadly condition. It results from inhaling carbon monoxide gas (CO). CO is produced when gas, wood, charcoal, or other fuel is burned. It often builds up when fuel-burning heating and cooking devices are faulty or not properly vented. CO is odorless, tasteless, and colorless gas. People can inhale it without knowing.

Blood Poisoning
Blood poisoning is an illness due to an infection or its toxin spreading through the bloodstream. The presence of bacteria in the blood is called bacteremia.

Toxic Hepatitis
Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver. Toxic hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver due to medication or exposure to toxic (poisonous) chemicals. Inflammation is a response by the immune system to an infection, irritation, or injury that often results in swelling and harm to the affected tissue.

Arsenic Toxicity
Arsenic toxicity occurs when a person is exposed to arsenic. Arsenic is a naturally occurring element in the earth's crust. It has no smell or taste. If you suspect you have been exposed to arsenic, contact your doctor immediately.

Mercury Toxicity
Mercury toxicity occurs when a person is exposed to mercury. Mercury is a naturally occurring metal. Either short- or long-term exposure to mercury can cause serious health problems. If you think you have been exposed to mercury, contact your doctor immediately.

Aluminum Toxicity
Aluminum toxicity occurs when a person breathes in high levels of aluminum from the air, or stores high levels of aluminum in the body.

Aluminum is the most abundant metal in the earth's crust, and is present in the environment combined with other elements (eg, oxygen, silicon, fluorine). Exposure to aluminum is usually not harmful, but exposure to high levels can cause serious health problems. If you suspect you have been exposed to high levels of aluminum, contact your doctor.

Acetaminophen Poisoning
Acetaminophen poisoning is an overdose of the over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication, acetaminophen (eg, Tylenol). These drugs are usually safe when used as recommended. The maximum daily dose of acetaminophen is four grams. Patients with chronic diseases (especially liver disease) may need to limit themselves to three grams a day. Acetaminophen poisoning may occur as a result of one large dose or chronic overdoses. This is a potentially serious condition that requires care from your doctor.