Chemicals, Medicines, and Toxins

Whether it be a medicine or a toxin (toxic substances that can cause harm) they all are chemical substances which we encounter everyday. Some of these substances are naturally present around us and some are created by us. Some examples of natural toxins are animal dander that comes from animal fur and mold spores that come from molds growing in damp places. Tobacco smoke, lead from water pipes and many paints, carbon monoxide from incomplete burnt natural gases from stoves, are all examples of man created hazardous substances.

How can a toxin be a medicine?

To be honest there is nothing which is not poisonous. Even table salt which is essential in small amounts for healthy living is a extremely poisonous if taken in large quanties. It all depends on how and how much it enters the body. Some chemicals such as snake venom is a poison but it is also used to make medicines. Similarly, many poisonous herbs are used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines. It is the right dose that differentiates a toxin from a remedy.

How to measure the dose of exposure?

To cause harm, the chemicals have to enter our body. When eaten it is called ingested, when it is breathed in it is called inhalation, and when they enter through the skin, it is called absorption. The amount of exposure depends on the chemical concentration, the number of exposures and length of the time of exposure, and the properties of the hazardous chemical. Sometimes chemicals absorbed in the body can be detected and measured in the blood as well. Often health of the person can influence on the effect caused by the exposure and this is why it is very difficult to assess the amount of damage caused.

How to reduce exposure?

Sometimes there is no one way to prevent exposure. But you can definitely reduce the exposure dose. Some examples are by elimination of the source, by staying away from the source, by protecting oneself from it, etc. The method you choose will depend on which option is most effective and most practical at that specific situation. The knowledge about hazardous chemicals and their effects is one of the most vital tools that come handy.

What to do?

Our body has a very impressive and well built-in protection system. No chemical or toxin remains in the body forever. But the longer it stays the more harm it causes. If you are exposed or fear you have been exposed, immediately consult your physician. Timely medical help can prevent a lot of complications and even death if exposure is too high. Also good rest, healthy diet, and drinking a lot of water, helps to cleanse the body faster and reduce the effects. The best you can do is by being alert and responsible.

Ongoing research

Toxicologists study the effects of toxins on the human body. Hygienists study on how to prevent exposures to such chemicals. Occupational and environmental physicians study the diagnosis and treatment of patients exposed to hazardous chemicals. Though research on toxins and hazardous chemicals is going on all over the world, it is far from complete. Legalities involved in occupational and chemical exposures are far from being well defined yet.

Compiled by: Indrajit Sinha; Last updated: 19.11.07© Medhospital Foundation

There is no generalization possible in medicine. The pages included in this website are purely educational and have been presented for information purpose only. Each section has been prepared with utmost care but should not be used as a substitute for your own physician's advice and care. Please see conditions for use.