Key Details:
- Chemical Structure: Parathion is an organophosphate ester, chemically related to other pesticides.
- Uses: It’s mainly used to control pests on various crops, but its use has declined due to safety concerns.
- Toxicity: Extremely toxic to humans and wildlife; exposure can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact.
- Symptoms of Exposure: These can include headache, dizziness, respiratory distress, nausea, and even seizures.
- Regulation: Many countries have banned or severely restricted its use due to its potential for harm.
Safety Precautions:
- Proper protective equipment is essential when handling parathion.
- Immediate medical attention is required in case of exposure.
Symptoms of Exposure:
Acute Symptoms:
- Neurological Symptoms:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Respiratory Symptoms:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Wheezing
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Muscular Symptoms:
- Weakness
- Muscle twitching or spasms
- Other Symptoms:
- Excessive salivation
- Sweating
- Constricted pupils (miosis)
Chronic Symptoms:
Long-term exposure can lead to:
- Neuropathy
- Cognitive impairments
- Increased risk of certain diseases
CAUSE:
1. Inhalation:
- Breathing in aerosols or vapors while applying the pesticide or being in areas where it has been sprayed.
2. Ingestion:
- Consuming contaminated food or water.
- Accidental ingestion during handling or mixing.
3. Dermal Contact:
- Handling parathion without protective gear can lead to skin absorption.
- Contact with contaminated surfaces or equipment.
4. Environmental Contamination:
- Runoff from treated fields can contaminate nearby water sources.
- Drift from aerial spraying can expose people in surrounding areas.
5. Improper Storage:
- Storing parathion in unsealed containers can lead to spills or leaks.
6. Occupational Exposure:
- Farmers, agricultural workers, and pesticide applicators are at higher risk due to direct handling.
7. Accidental Spills or Leaks:
- Mishandling during transport or application can lead to unintended releases.
RICKS:
1. Acute Toxicity:
- Neurological Effects: Inhibition of acetylcholinesterase can lead to serious neurological symptoms, including convulsions, respiratory failure, and potentially death.
- Respiratory Distress: Severe exposure can cause pulmonary edema and difficulty breathing.
2. Chronic Health Effects:
- Long-term exposure can lead to neurological damage, cognitive deficits, and chronic respiratory issues.
- Increased risk of certain cancers has been suggested in some studies.
3. Environmental Impact:
- Parathion can contaminate soil and water, affecting non-target organisms, including beneficial insects, birds, and aquatic life.
- Residues can persist in the environment, leading to long-term ecological damage.
4. Occupational Risks:
- Farmers and agricultural workers face heightened risks due to frequent handling and application, making them susceptible to both acute and chronic health effects.
5. Regulatory Risks:
- Use of parathion is heavily regulated in many countries due to safety concerns, leading to legal implications for improper handling or application.
6. Emergency Situations:
- Accidental spills or leaks can pose immediate health risks to nearby individuals and require emergency response measures.
TREATMENT:
1. Decontamination:
- Remove Contaminated Clothing: Immediately take off any clothing that may be contaminated.
- Wash Skin: Thoroughly wash the affected skin with soap and water to remove any residual pesticide.
2. Supportive Care:
- Monitor Vital Signs: Continuous monitoring of heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure.
- Oxygen Therapy: Administer supplemental oxygen if the patient is having difficulty breathing.
3. Antidotes:
- Atropine: Administered to counteract the effects of excessive acetylcholine due to acetylcholinesterase inhibition. Doses may be repeated based on symptom severity.
- Pralidoxime (2-PAM): This antidote can help reactivate acetylcholinesterase if given soon after exposure. Its effectiveness decreases over time.
4. Seizure Management:
- Benzodiazepines: Medications like lorazepam or diazepam may be used to control seizures.
5. Hospitalization:
- Severe cases may require intensive care for respiratory support, especially if respiratory failure occurs.
6. Follow-Up Care:
- Patients may need long-term follow-up to monitor for any delayed neurological effects or other complications.
cost of treatment for parathion exposure in India:
1. Hospitalization:
- Public Hospitals: Treatment may be more affordable, potentially ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 per day, depending on the facility.
- Private Hospitals: Costs can be higher, ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹20,000 or more per day, especially for intensive care.
2. Medications:
- Atropine and Pralidoxime: The cost for these medications can vary. Atropine may cost around ₹50-₹300 per dose, while Pralidoxime can cost between ₹1,000 and ₹3,000 per dose.
3. Additional Treatments:
- Costs for supportive care, oxygen therapy, and other interventions can add to the overall expense, potentially ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹10,000 depending on the complexity.
4. Total Cost:
