POISONS AND POISONING. 69 



to die as a result of this poisoning. Plant lice cause irritation of the 

 mouth and throat if eaten in large numbers. Some insects secrete a 

 chemical poison which, taken in this way, causes serious digestive 

 disturbance. 



POISONING WITH SPANISH PLY. 



Spanish fly, in the form of powdered cantharides, may be given in 

 an overdose, or when applied as a blister to too large a surface of 

 skin enough may be absorbed to poison. If given by the mouth it 

 causes severe irritation of the gastro-intestinal tract, shown by sali- 

 vation, sore throat, colic, bloody diarrhea, etc. It also produces, 

 whether given by the mouth or absorbed through the skin, irritation 

 of the urinary tract, as shown by frequent and painful urination. If 

 death results, it is due to respiratory paralysis. 



Treatment. — Give protectives and the white of egg, with opium. Do 

 not give oils or alcohol. 



