What are the symptoms of mild dichlorvos poisoning?
Nov 03, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Mild poisoning by dichlorvos presents symptoms such as cholinergic nerve excitation, respiratory tract irritation, gastrointestinal discomfort, ocular symptoms, and mild systemic discomfort. It is mostly caused by organophosphates inhibiting cholinesterase activity. Although symptoms are relatively mild, progression should be closely monitored. If suspected symptoms occur after exposure to dichlorvos, the individual should immediately leave the contaminated environment and seek emergency medical care.
Mild poisoning from dichlorvos may present with symptoms of cholinergic nerve excitation, respiratory tract irritation, gastrointestinal discomfort, ocular symptoms, and mild systemic discomfort. These are mostly caused by organophosphorus compounds inhibiting cholinesterase activity. Although symptoms are generally mild, progression should be closely monitored. If symptoms suggestive of dichlorvos exposure occur, the individual should immediately leave the contaminated environment and seek emergency medical care.
1. Cholinergic nerve excitation symptoms: Manifest as mild salivation, increased sweating, slight hand and foot tremors, and in some individuals, mild pupillary constriction. These result from acetylcholine accumulation at nerve endings stimulating cholinergic receptors. Symptoms are typically localized and transient.
2. Respiratory tract irritation symptoms: Include mild coughing, itchy throat, and chest tightness. Individuals exposed via inhalation tend to have more pronounced symptoms due to dichlorvos irritating the respiratory mucosa, causing mild congestion and increased secretions. Significant breathing difficulty is usually absent.
3. Gastrointestinal discomfort symptoms: Commonly include mild nausea and reduced appetite. A minority may experience vague abdominal pain or mild diarrhea due to irritation of the gastrointestinal mucosa or impaired digestive function. Symptoms are generally not severe; vomiting, if present, is mild or infrequent.
4. Ocular symptoms: Include mild conjunctival congestion, dry eyes, slight tearing, or blurred vision. These occur when the toxin contacts ocular mucosa, disrupting neuromuscular function in the eye. Significant visual impairment is uncommon.
5. Mild systemic discomfort symptoms: May include mild dizziness, fatigue, lethargy, and in some cases, mild headache. These arise from mild central nervous system dysfunction caused by the toxin. Symptoms do not significantly improve with rest.
In daily care, patients should remain quietly at rest and avoid strenuous activity. A light, easily digestible diet is recommended. Symptoms should be closely monitored, antidotes administered as prescribed, and cholinesterase activity regularly rechecked. Prompt medical attention is required if symptoms worsen.
