Poisoning: First aid Many conditions mimic the signs and symptoms of poisoning, including seizures, alcohol intoxication, stroke and insulin reaction. So look for the signs and symptoms listed below if you suspect poisoning, but check with the poison control center at 800-222-1222 (in the United States) before giving anything to the affected person. Signs and symptoms of poisoning: * Burns or redness around the mouth and lips, which can result from drinking certain poisons * Breath that smells like chemicals, such as gasoline or paint thinner * Burns, stains and odors on the person, on his or her clothing, or on the furniture, floor, rugs or other objects in the surrounding area * Empty medication bottles or scattered pills * Vomiting, difficulty breathing, sleepiness, confusion or other unexpected signs When to call for help: Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately if the person is: * Drowsy or unconscious * Having difficulty breathing or has stopped breathing * Uncontrollably restless or agitated * Having seizures If the person seems stable and has no symptoms, but you suspect poisoning, call the poison control center at 800-222-1222. Provide information about the person's symptoms and, if possible, information about what he or she ingested, how much and when. What to do while waiting for help: * If the person has been exposed to poisonous fumes, such as carbon monoxide, get him or her into fresh air immediately. * If the person swallowed the poison, remove anything remaining in the mouth. * If the suspected poison is a household cleaner or other chemical, read the label and follow instructions for accidental poisoning. If the product is toxic, the label will likely advise you to call the poison control center at 800-222-1222. Also call this 800 number if you can't identify the poison, if it's medication or if there are no instructions. * Follow treatment directions that are given by the poison control center.