Iodine is a chemical element that is mainly found naturally in the soil. It plays an important role in the functioning of the thyroid, a gland that helps control a variety of bodily functions, such as metabolizing nutrients in food into usable energy, as well as guiding the body through the different stages of development. Iodine usually enters the body through the consumption of foods that contain iodine; however, the element can also be sold in liquid supplements or as pills. Although iodine deficiency tends to be a more common concern as it can affect thyroid function, iodine poisoning can also be potentially dangerous, causing serious symptoms and complications. Iodine poisoning can be caused by eating foods with too much of the element or by overdosing on iodine supplements.
Some of the most common symptoms of iodine poisoning usually occur in the mouth. A person may first notice a strange, metallic taste in the mouth. Pain in the mouth and throat that ranges from mild to severe burning may also develop as a result of the poisoning.
Other symptoms of iodine poisoning can vary depending on the severity of the incident. In the initial stages, a person may experience nausea. In more severe cases of poisoning, uncontrollable vomiting and diarrhea may occur. Poisoning can also cause cough, fever, thirst, and stomach pain. Although these symptoms are generally considered common, they can still be dangerous if they occur with other, potentially more fatal conditions.
Although death tends to be considered relatively rare in iodine poisoning, the condition can become serious and life-threatening. One of the most serious symptoms is seizures. If a person begins to convulse and loses consciousness, vomiting can become extremely dangerous because it could present a choking hazard, especially if the person is alone when it occurs. Other serious symptoms that may occur include shortness of breath, shock, inability to urinate, and delirium.
If iodine poisoning is suspected, seeking immediate medical attention is generally recommended. A doctor will then usually assess the patient to make sure the patient's vital signs are healthy, and then may provide the patient with oxygen if they are having difficulty breathing. To remove excess iodine from the system, a doctor may insert a tube into the patient's stomach through their nose or mouth, and administer fluids intravenously to remove the poison from the body. Recovery can vary depending on the severity of the poisoning and how quickly medical attention was received, but death or permanent complications do not tend to occur after the poisoning incident.