Arsenic poisoning can occur due to long-term exposure to inorganic arsenic, mainly through drinking-water and food, or due to immediate exposure to high levels of arsenic. The symptoms of arsenic poisoning can vary depending on the level and duration of exposure.

Immediate symptoms of arsenic poisoning may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Cough
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
• Sore throat (pharyngitis)
• Abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
• “Pins and needles” feeling in your fingers and toes
• Red, swollen skin
• Garlic odor in your breath and body tissues

Long-term exposure to arsenic can cause more severe symptoms, which may include:

• Skin pigmentation changes (darkening of your skin)
• Warts and lesions
• Hard patches on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet (hyperkeratosis)
• White lines on your nails (Mees’ lines)
• Persistent sore throat
• Constant digestive issues
• Developmental effects
• Diabetes
• Pulmonary disease
• Cardiovascular disease
• Neurotoxicity
• Fetal complications or birth defects in pregnant women

If you suspect arsenic poisoning, it is important to contact Poison Control right away for help. Immediate medical attention is necessary for severe cases of arsenic poisoning.