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Medical Encyclopedia |
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Definition Return to top
Beeswax is wax taken from the honeycomb of bees. Beeswax poisoning occurs when someone swallows beeswax.
This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
Poisonous Ingredient Return to top
Beeswax
Where Found Return to top
Symptoms Return to top
Beeswax is considered nonpoisonous, but it may cause a blockage in the intestines if a large amount is swallowed.
Home Care Return to top
Do NOT make a person throw up unless told to do so by poison control or a health care professional.
Before Calling Emergency Return to top
Determine the following information:
Poison Control Return to top
The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.
This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
What to Expect at the Emergency Room Return to top
The health care provider will measure and monitor your vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate.
Note: You may not need to be seen in the emergency room.
Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top
How well you do depends on the amount of poison swallowed and how quickly treatment is received.
Since beeswax is considered relatively nontoxic, recovery is very likely.
Update Date: 2/12/2009 Updated by: A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Greg Juhn, MTPW, David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by Stephen C. Acosta, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (2/27/2008).
