How to Recognize the Symptoms of a Sleeping Pill Overdose
Sleeping pills are a form of sedatives that are used to treat sleeping issues such as insomnia. Though not all sleeping pill overdoses are intentional, there can be serious risks involved when taking sleeping pills. In a study done by the American Cancer Society, it was found that men who indicated that they took sleeping pills "often" had a 57 percent increase in mortality and women had 54 percent increase.
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Instructions
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Observe the person for signs of an upset stomach, including vomiting. The body will sometimes try to rid itself of an excess of toxins through vomiting. However, even if a person has stopped vomiting, this does not mean that a person is out of danger in an overdose situation.
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Ask the person to stand up and pay attention whether or not they seem to be steady on their feet. During an overdose, a person might not be able to stand and may complain of severe dizziness. Dizziness may also be accompanied by blurred vision or fainting.
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Check for signs of gasping, wheezing and choking. If the person is having trouble breathing, this is a serious health threat and should not be taken lightly.
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Talk to the person to determine whether or not they can carry on a normal conversation, using logical thought patterns. If the person is having trouble pronouncing words or seems to be experiencing difficulty putting clear thoughts together, this is a warning sign.
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Wake the person if he is sleeping. A person in coma may appear to be sleeping, but upon closer inspection, it will be difficult or impossible to wake them. The Mayo Clinic says that coma symptoms include: "Closed eyes, no responses of limbs except for reflex movements, and no response to painful stimuli, except for reflex movements."
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Tips & Warnings
If you are prescribed a sleeping pill, always discuss the correct dosage information with your physician and pharmacist. If you recognize the symptoms of a sleeping pill overdose, seek medical advice and care immediately. If you even remotely suspect an overdose, call the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 1-800-222-1222.
Do not drive after taking a sleeping pill. Do not combine alcohol and sleeping pills. Do not ingest any additional medicines if an overdose is suspected. Do not borrow other people's sleeping pills. A medicine that works for one person may not be a good choice for another. In addition, doctors prescribe sleeping pill dosages according to various factors such other medications you currently take, age, weight, and sex. Sleeping pill dosage is not a one size fits all scenario.
