The Effects of Iron Overload
Iron is a mineral supplement that can be found over the counter from almost any store where supplements are available. Iron overload, or overdose, occurs when too much is taken, whether it is accidentally or intentionally. Iron overload usually happens to children when they ingest vitamins, either pediatric or adult, that contain iron.
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Intestinal Effects
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Iron is a direct irritant to your stomach, as it corrodes the lining of your intestines. Symptoms usually develop within six hours after a large amount of iron has been swallowed and can include severe vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and dehydration. If the poisoning has occurred in a child, there may be blood in the vomit or stool. After proper medical attention, symptoms begin to subside within 6 to 24 hours after onset.
Nervous System Effects
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If iron overload is severe enough and sufficient treatment is not provided, this can result in shock or even death. Also, if enough iron is ingested, a coma may occur within 30 minutes to one hour after overdose. Severe iron toxicity in an individual is equated with a person ingesting more than 50 mg/kg of body weight. Other nervous system effects include dizziness, convulsions, chills, fever and headache.
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Skin Effects
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If you have ingested too much iron, you may experience some effects on your skin; you may lose color from your skin or become pale (also known as pallor), develop a bluish color on your lips and fingernails and you may even experience flushing. If you know that you have overdosed on iron, it is important to seek medical attention right away whether you are experiencing symptoms or not.
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